Deuteronomy 31:16
“The LORD said to Moses, “Behold, you are about to lie down with your fathers; and this people will arise and play the harlot with the strange gods of the land, into the midst of which they are going, and will forsake Me and break My covenant which I have made with them.”
This would be shocking news, “You are about to die.” How would we respond? Part of my response depends on when I receive it. If it were now, I would be sad. I had hoped to see my children move into adulthood, work and have there own kids. I would be sad to leave my wife without a partner. I wanted to finish teaching and see where my counseling went. It would seem premature if it were to happen now.
In terms of the afterlife, that would be fine. The Bible describes our faith as a walk (Colossians 2:6). The Lord is with and in us. He guides us and speaks to our hearts. We know His voice (John 10:27). The longer we follow Him the better we know Him. Dying would just be another days journey. Yet, without end.
It will be exciting to know God more fully. I Corinthians 13:12 speaks of our limited relationship with God and how in heaven, it’ll be face to face.
Moses doesn’t display a response. I would assume he’s ready and possibly eager to move on. He has led his people through many stages. The ones he brought out of Egypt have all died. It may be that he misses them and feels as though he should be with them. Joshua is a capable leader. It’s time for him to take over. Moses knows the Lord well and probably looks forward to greater closeness with Him.
I would comply with His will. However, it would seem to be premature. I feel as though my present relationships and stages aren’t at a transition point. It may be that they never will be. Some do pass at awkward times. Others are like Moses and die at a time when things appear concluded.
Lord, I trust You in life and death. You will care for all involved. I look forward to being with You more fully. The earthly veil will be set aside. “And so we shall be with ‘You’ forever.” I Thessalonians 4:17