Mike’s Musings ….

Safe in the Arms of Jesus

   Every time I hear that hymn, I think of a small child whose life is gone from this earth, but whose soul is safe with our Lord (Matthew 18: 1 – 6). Yet, its lyrics are for those of us whose souls have obeyed the gospel of Christ and have committed our lives to His care and keeping via our faithfulness. While I could muse on this latter reality, my mind is on the former: the security of a babe’s soul with our Lord.

   I never met her; don’t even know her last name. She was a twin, and her parents named her Arya (pronounced R’ E ah). She blessed this world with her cheerful energy for only fifteen months, but her parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and others gained from her personality. But since early May, Arya battled three different viruses and eventually lost that battle. This past Wednesday afternoon, doctors confirmed that only machines were keeping her tiny body alive; her brain had suffered too much damage to permit her recovery. The challenging decision was made to let her go, but in that departure, donate her viable organs so other children might live. What a generous decree of love!

   I muse on the contrasting emotions that must fill the hearts of several. First, the parents, siblings, and grandparents of Arya: there is heart-wrenching grief. They had expected to raise twin girls, enjoying both similarities and differences, delighting in the experience of their growing maturity; but instead, must make plans for a funeral. Then those whose children will be enhanced by the reception of viable organs that at the very least change a dismal reality into hopeful futures; all because of the death of a little girl and the loving-kindness of generous parents! What extremely contrasting emotions!

   Then I muse of Jesus whose sacrifice revives the souls of every obedient person! From His death, and our obedience to His word, we have not only a righteous life here on earth (Romans 6) but eternal life when we continue in Him (Hebrews 5:9; Colossians 3:1-17). Arya’s soul is safe in the arms of Jesus, and ours can be as well, provided we sincerely appreciate His sacrifice, proving our thankfulness by our obedience! Again, what a contrast of emotion: being dead in trespasses and sin and now alive in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:1 – 10)! How can anyone not see the comfort of being safe in the arms of Jesus – as safe as little Arya in her tenderness and innocence? Rest, dear one – and may we someday rest as well – safe in His arms (Revelation 14:13).