What Do You Say To Someone Nearing The End Of Their Life?

What kind of conversations do you have with an aging parent or loved one who is nearing the end of their life?

I suppose it depends on where they are with God. If it were someone like Billy Graham, the conversation would be filled with excitement about the transition toward heaven, about finally seeing Jesus face-to-face and stepping into perfection.

But if it were someone like my mom, who rarely wanted to talk about death, the conversation might look different. In those cases, I tell of my own story and thoughts about my own end.

If I were nearing the end, I’d want to talk about where I’m going, not just what I’m leaving behind. I’d want to picture that last page turning in the story of my earthly life and the next chapter opening, eternity with God. I’d want the people I love to encourage me in that transition and even celebrate where I am going.

But for someone who doesn’t believe in the afterlife or in Christ’s victory over death, the conversation is heavier.

For them, death feels like the end. That’s why asking a question can open the door: “What do you think happens to us after we die?” It’s an honest way to begin, especially when we know the finish line is drawing closer.

When Paul was explaining our new bodies to the Corinthians, he said: “It is not lost when we die. It is like a seed that is planted. Our bodies that die are planted in the ground, but they will live again. Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength” (1 Corinthians 15:42-43 NCV).

That is the hope we have. For the believer, I think it’s the confidence that this life is not all there is.

Jesus Himself said, “Don’t be troubled. Believe in God, and believe in me. There are many rooms in my Father’s house. I would not tell you this if it were not true. I am going there to prepare a place for you” (John 14:1-2 NCV).

So maybe it’s time to have this conversation with the aging people you love. Actually, it’s a good conversation to have with anyone, at any time.

Not to make them uncomfortable, but to bring hope, to share vision, and to remind them that life is a journey toward an eternal destination. I believe this life is a journey, a preparation, and a time to share our story with others as we all work toward our finish line.

If you haven’t had it with someone you love, maybe today is the day.

LORD, help me to see life as a journey leading to You. Give me and others the courage to talk with those we love about eternity and help us live with purpose in this life, not this is just a temporary place. IJNIP amen ♥️