When I began processing my father’s death back in February of this year (2025), I wrote a couple of articles about death and family struggles. As a Catholic, I am still surprised how I am witnessing the deep sorrow for a loved one in the dying process. Sometimes I am even shocked about the great measures taken to try to extend a loved one’s life even though their life is filled with pain, agony and deep sadness. This has led me to write about finding peace and purpose in and through death.
The Universal Reality of Death
From the day we are born, it is known we will die. Every person dies. This is definitive. As a person, we know every person will die. You can find this in the Bible in Hebrews 9:27, “Just as it is appointed that human beings die once, and after this the judgment,” (usccb.org) Yet, we never seem to be prepared, even when we or a loved one is diagnosed with a terminal illness. Yes, there are miracles, but there is no promise of eternal life here on earth.
This is a topic worth facing openly and spiritually. Living your life intentionally with purpose, helps to prepare you for death. Surrendering your life to God brings peace and knowledge of what is to come. These are things we should openly discuss as well as accepting death.
Why Do People Fear Death?
People fear the unknown. Although there have been movies made, stories told and more about death, concrete information does not truly exist. I have been present with both of my parents while they passed. It has not provided me any comfort towards the dying process. I cannot be sure either wasn’t in pain, although they were each provided pain relief medication at the time.
Fear of the unknown is quite common. So is the fear of pain, separation, or judgment. All of these things are brought to life when thinking about death. We are also taught culturally to avoid it. The Bible teaches us the opposite. Death is something we are living towards. Death is where we will reach the full love of God and meet our savior Jesus Christ. Just ponder the words of Psalm 23:4 , “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me.” (usccb.org)
What Does the Bible Say About Death?
According to the Bible, death is not the end but a passage into a better place. Jesus overcame death through His resurrection so that we can do the same. Our hope lies in our resurrection. The following scriptures support this:
- John 11:25–26 – “Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” (usccb.org)
- Philippians 1:21 – “For to me life is Christ, and death is gain.” (usccb.org)
- 2 Corinthians 5:8 – “Yet we are courageous, and we would rather leave the body and go home to the Lord.” (usccb.org)
Paul’s perspective grants us great comfort on death. Like Paul, we should view our life as living for Christ. Death is a transition to a better state. It is to live with Christ and to be closer to God. Our desire to live with Christ will provide something positive to look forward to in death. We will live in sheer joy and without pain.
Why Christians Can Look Forward to Death (in a Healthy Way)
There are many reasons to look forward to death in a healthy way. Chris Tomlin’s song, “I will Rise” speaks this so clearly to me. In our assurance of eternal life is no more suffering, tears, or pain. Revelation 21:4 reads, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain, [for] the old order has passed away.” (usccb.org)
We will also be reunited with loved ones. Best of all, we will be in God’s presence eternally. Romans 8:38–39 states, “For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (usccb.org)
Coping with the Death of a Loved One
When grieving the death of a loved one, we should grieve with hope. Our loved one will be experiencing the bliss of eternal life with God. Utilize faith as a source of comfort and healing. Spend time in prayer. Turn to your support systems when needed. Community, friends and family can help you mourn in a positive way. Remember Matthew 5:4, “Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted” (usccb.org)
It can be really difficult to accept the death of a loved one, mostly because we are thinking about us. We dwell on how their death will affect us. When you live a life surrendered to God, you understand He has a purpose. That purpose includes eternal life.
When You’re Given a Time Limit: Living While Dying
When you are living your life for God, it is much easier to accept death. As James 4:14 reads, “you have no idea what your life will be like tomorrow. You are a puff of smoke that appears briefly and then disappears.” (usccb.org) When you are given a time limit on your life, you may need to find purpose in that final stretch. You may be thinking about leaving a legacy of love and faith. At this time it is good to pray 2 Timothy 4:6–8, ”For I am already being poured out like a libation, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me, but to all who have longed for his appearance” (usccb.org)
Although it may be tough facing terminal illness, do face it with courage and hope. You can be a great living witness of God’s Grace and Love. Demonstrating your acceptance of God’s sovereignty while embracing each day will leave that legacy of faith and love.
Encouragement: Redeeming the Perspective on Death
Think of death as a door, not a wall. It leads to something better. It leads to a place most people want to end up for their last vacation. Live with eternity in mind. Your life doesn’t end, it just changes in the way you live.
Now is the time to reflect on how you live and how you prepare for death. Utilize prayer, reading scripture and journaling to work through fears and to determine your best course in this earthly life. Align your life with the purpose you were created for. Live that purpose and be a laborer for Christ.
Hope Beyond the Grave
Remember that if it is a loved one’s death, a friend’s death or your own death that you must face, our hope is in the Lord. Live well and die well. Trust in God, whether grieving or facing death personally. Take comfort in 1 Peter 4:11, “Whoever preaches, let it be with the words of God; whoever serves, let it be with the strength that God supplies, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (usccb.org)
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