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Death of comedian Barry Cryer is a reminder that life is short


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FOOD FOR THOUGHT by Howard Stone, minister of Castletown and Community Free Church

The comedian, writer and actor Barry Cryer died last week at the age of 86. He had been well-known for his appearances on radio and TV and as a script writer for other comics. But his passing is a solemn reminder that life doesn’t continue indefinitely. And even famous people are quickly forgotten. I’m sure my grandchildren (maybe even my children) will have no idea who Barry Cryer was.

We don’t like to speak or think about death, but it’s a reality that we can’t escape. One day my heart will stop beating. So will yours. It’s not morbid to consider such things. It’s wise – because death is inevitable. We need therefore to be prepared for it.

Although many today deny it, human beings have an innate sense that there is a continuing existence after death. The Pharaohs filled their pyramids with treasures for the afterlife; the Romans believed in an underworld and the Vikings in Valhalla, the hall of the heroes. Jesus has proved that death is not the end, by returning to life after three days.

If, in the end, we’re going to die, what’s the point of spending time and energy trying to be prosperous or to make a name for ourselves? As Jesus once said: “What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul?” Nothing! However, he also promised a full life in this world and an unending life in the world to come for everyone who follows him. Followers of Jesus can think about death without fear.

Life is short, but eternity is for ever. Are you ready?


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