SEND THE LIGHT MINISTRIES INC – PROPER

Read Zechariah 11:2

When a mighty cedar falls in the forest, it shakes the ground and warns every other tree that the woodsman is near. The crash of one reminds the rest that their turn will also come.

This is a vivid picture of death’s certainty. Each time we hear of someone passing—whether great like the cedar or small like the fir—it is a reminder: we too are marked for the axe.

But how easily our hearts grow numb to that truth. We attend funerals, read obituaries, or hear of tragedies, yet life goes on as if the bell of death does not toll for us. Like birds nesting in the steeple, we build our plans even as the bells ring.

The Bible urges us to take death seriously—not fearfully, but wisely. Our time on earth is short, and eternity is long. Every day is one step closer to meeting our Maker. Therefore, let us not live carelessly but faithfully.

Christ’s return may come suddenly, and death may arrive unexpectedly. But for the faithful servant, that day holds no terror. It will be the day of reward—the moment we hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

So let every “falling cedar”—every reminder of life’s brevity—stir us to deeper devotion, quicker repentance, and greater love for God.

Life Application
How do you respond when you’re reminded of death—fear, denial, or readiness?
What areas of your life need to be brought into order before God?
Who in your life needs to hear about eternal hope before it’s too late?

Prayer
Lord, teach me to number my days, that I may live with wisdom and urgency. When I see others fall, help me not to grow cold or careless, but to prepare my heart for Your coming. Help me to live each day in faithfulness, so that when my time comes, I may stand before You with joy. Let my life be fruitful while I have breath, and when my work is done, receive me into Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Bp. Paul Solomon Maglaya