Does death have the final day?

Death is a terrible thing. It tears people apart from their lives, from their plans, away from their loved ones, often without warning. If there was no hope of an afterlife, humans are the most deplorable species 

Animals do not worry about death. They live by their instincts and when it's time, they die. Humans have a broader perspective. At least they think about the meaning of life or ask themselves the question if there could be life after death.

Most people suppress this thought all throughout their lives. But all distraction does not protect us from the fact that none of us can escape death. 

What is the difference between humans and animals? 

Where does our consciousness come from if it brings us to such distress?

Wouldn't we live more freely if we didn't have to fear death and uncertainty? 

Some people think that everything ends with death. Somehow I can't help thinking that that would be very pathetic. There really would be little left to distinguish us from animals. Where does it come from, this sense that it is important how we live and not just that we live? Every human being, no matter how they have been taught, has this inner knowledge of good and evil. We all recognize when a person has been wronged. And aren't we all touched and challenged by people who dedicate their lives to helping others? We know the value of a human being.(Which does not mean that animals are worthless!)

Human beings have a different kind of dignity. Their lives are meaningful in a way that distinguishes them from other creatures.Or not?

Could this not be an indication that we are just that: Creatures? Created in the likeness of the Creator?

An art expert recognizes the brushstroke of a painter just as naturally as I do the rhythm of Jack Johnson or the voice of Freddie Mercury. Because every creator puts something of themselves into their work. If we look at the works with interest, we discover something of the creator's essence. So if man has an awareness of the finiteness of this life or an inkling of something greater, wouldn't it be a possible conclusion that such a thing really exists?

For if man were the creature of an intelligent Creator - and a look at the complexity of man clearly reveals intelligence - and therefore had an awareness of eternity, it would be a cruel joke of the Creator if this dimension did not exist. 

If man had an awareness of justice, but there was no one to ultimately evaluate and demand it, wouldn't it be better if we just lived for ourselves?- Which, admittedly, we do far too often. Perhaps it could be explained by the fact that we humans know from experience that life is better if we care. But then I ask myself why we are not better at it after all these years.

The Bible gives me answers to these questions. It tells me that we are creatures, made in the likeness of our Creator. We have the privilege of representing him and living out his values. I admit, there is obviously room for improvement here as well. The Bible explains where this inner conscience comes from. Because if there is life after this earthly life, and if there is One who judges our lives, then I want to live this life with intentionality. The Bible reveals to us that this Creator is very present. And he is  surprisingly patient. He reaches out to us, wants to enter into a relationship with us. He knows us and trusts us. I recognize this trait of the Creator when I see people who put their lives at the service of others: Mothers, nurses, researchers, teachers and many more. Yesterday, I heard the news that one of my favorite teachers that passed away, wich led me to write this blog. He left a precious mark on my life and it pains me to know that he is no more. The Bible has answers to the questions we ask ourselves. It even has a solution for our failure. For more cruel than living a life without hope is a life in the knowledge of our guilt. 

The Bible calls out to us: Be reconciled with God!  It tells us that Jesus can free us from the fear of death (1 Corinthians 15:15) because he offers us forgiveness. His life for our lives. A promise that motivates us to live and love and that frees us to die in peace. Death is still cruel, but it no longer has the last word.

May you find answers and hope! 

Andreea = )