A Moment With Pastor Fred

It was 50 years ago this past summer that my father, Paul died at the age of 52. My sister Jane also lost her husband at an early age. Recently she posted some thoughts on Facebook on the anniversary of Tim’s death. God has allowed her to help others to think a little about the “unexpected.”

1. Have an honest conversation with your loved ones. No one wants to talk about it, but you need to. Write things down – bank accounts, retirement funds, saving accounts, etc. Both spouses should have access to all passwords.
2. List when things should be done: air filters for the furnace, oil for the car, etc. Make a list of reliable repairmen with contact information. 
3. Make sure your will is updated. Have a power of attorney in place.
4. Talk to a knowledgeable person about how much insurance you need. This all depends on your age, kids, etc. Do you have a lot of debt?
5. Don’t make any major decisions in the first year if you can. If you must, make sure you get godly advice.
6. Don’t sign anything without advice.
7. Talk through funerals and burials.

No one is trying to be morbid. Death though is a certainty unless the Lord comes back. We must be prepared. As Jerry Bridges wrote, “Do what only you can do. Trust God to do what only he can do.” Our days are in his hands.