Our Time on Earth…

8-23-25

As a teen, my husband worked at a small sawmill just down the road from where we live. It has since closed down, and the little town is simply a wide spot in the road, as they say. The post office and small store closed with only the empty and broken buildings still standing. My husband’s dad worked at the mill, as well as did many other people within the surrounding communities. There are many stories to tell about those days and their time together.

Yesterday, my husband learned of one of the men’s passing. Last night, we laughed at many antics, pranks, and memories that brought smiles and a sense of the brotherhood they shared. This particular man and his brothers were hard workers. They were simple people with their days filled with work, coworkers, and family. Often joking and pranking each other, but in the end they would always take up for each other. One of the stories involved my husband’s dad (Papa) and the man. My Papa was a character and loved to get one over on anyone. (Our grandson is named for his Papas.) He initiated the whole process and before it was over the man had said, “I get you, I will.” He did, later, by catching a bird and releasing into the confines of Papa’s work area completely unbeknownst to Papa as he sat working. A commotion ensued, and everyone got a good laugh, even Papa.

After listening to the stories, I asked my husband if he was saved. My husband replied that this was 40 something years ago and he didn’t know. I said, “I was just wondering if you would have time together in Heaven. He said, “I just miss our time on Earth.”

You see, we fail to realize how valuable each second and moment are with those around us. We fail to understand the importance of each day we are given on Earth with others. It seems like when someone we know passes on, we can think of a myriad of ways and instances in which each person impacts our lives.

James 4:14 – “Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” I’ve heard the saying, life is short. Yes, yes it is! As we become aware of our time on Earth, we begin to look forward to Heaven. Hebrews 11:16, “Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one.”

One of my favorite images is in this verse. I long to see my Lord face-to-face. I long to be in His presence. I Corinthians 13:12, “For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” Don’t get me wrong, I do enjoy my time on Earth. I love my family, and my service to the Lord. But, I long for Heaven. I long to see my Father face-to-face. I long to hug mom, Jackie, Bonnie, and Papa. I look forward to hearing those words from my Savior of “Well done!”