Articles
The Way of All the Earth
At the end of each year various media outlets publish lists of the rich and famous who have died. Of course, we have heard of the recent passing of Carrie Fisher and her mother, Debbie Reynolds, the next day. Other notable deaths in 2016: Muhammad Ali, Fidel Castro, John Glenn, Elie Wiesel, Harper Lee, Arnold Palmer, Prince, Nancy Reagan, Antonin Scalia, David Bowie, George Michael and Alan Thicke.
But beyond these, millions of people who are not publicly known – butchers and bakers and candlestick makers – have also taken their last breath to await their final destiny in 2016. So what can we learn from this ritual of annual obituaries?
First, death is “the way of all the earth” (Jsh 23:14; 1 Kgs 2:2), from astronauts to athletes to politicians. No amount of fame, fortune or fortitude will deliver us from death’s visitation. The wise will prepare themselves for this inevitable fate.
Second, all our worldly accomplishments and accolades will be meaningless before God who will judge us according to the spiritual fruit we have born unto Him (2 Cor 5:10; Jn 15:1-8).
Third, for all the applause and acclaim some receive in this life, we are replaceable. More athletes, celebrities and politicians will pop up to replace the departed; last year’s heroes are soon forgotten (Ecc 2:15-16). The wise will invest their efforts in service to their Creator and Savior who will never forget one’s labors of love and faith (Mt 6:19-21; 2 Tim 4:8; 1 Pet 1:4-5).
