Read: John 17:1-5

I have finished the work which You have given me to do. -John 17:4

My husband Bill died of cancer in 1982. He was only 48 and was still energetic in
ministry. Many have asked, "Why was Bill taken at such a young age when he was
accomplishing so much for the Lord?"

For years I’ve been unable to find a clear-cut answer to that question. But I have
found some helpful perspectives as I’ve considered the life and death of Christ.
Before he died in His thirties, Jesus prayed to His Father, "I have finished the work
which You have given Me to do" (Jn. 17:4).

Philosopher William James said that the value of life is computed not by its duration
but by its donation Except for the obvious necessity of the cross, Jesus could have
continued performing amazing deeds if He had lived longer. But such deeds wouldn’t
have enlarged His supreme donation – His life and death, which provided our great
salvation. The work that He completed is still bearing fruit by His Spirit.

Paul Powell wrote, "It is important to remember that one’s harvest is not
always reaped in this life. "God’s work through our lives will continue bearing
fruit long after we’re gone.

That is a comforting and challenging thought. No matter what our life’s duration,
we have an opportunity to make a lasting donation.

• Joanie E. Yoder

Our life of service to the Lord Bears fruit long after we are gone;

So even if our life’s cut short,

Our work for Christ will carry on. -Sper

YOU DON’T NEED A LONG LIFE TO LIVE A GOOD LIFE.

OUR DAILY BREAD, Copyright 1999 by Radio Bible Class, Grand Rapids,Michigan. Used by
permission.

• Geo –

Edwardsburg, MI