Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 went missing on March 8th. I've watched in anticipation for the plane to be found. The aircraft and black box are important to the searchers. The bodies of loved ones are important to the families and friends. Heightened attention develops as "pings" are detected from the carrier's black box. This discovery is encouraging, but until the plane is found, hope is waning, despair and anger waxing. Lives have been lost. Man's resources to recover the aircraft – futile.
We weep for the souls now lost deep beneath the ocean's waters. Yet we do not weep for the lost while they are walking the streets of their home towns. We seem less concerned over the “lost” in our families and circles of influence.
If the plane is found, the bodies may be recovered. Their souls, however, left the plane the day it plunged into the ocean's deep. Where each person wound up for eternity was a choice they made before the flight's demise.
Every day we encounter people who've not given much attention to where they will spend eternity. They may be unaware of the consequences of "deciding not to decide" about eternal life. Carefree attitudes about eternal life position is the norm. Those of us who are secure in heaven as our final destination often get smug. We observe the lost and judge. Sometimes we pity. But how often do we take the bold step to share the life-giving hope of Christ? Concerned over being scoffed at or rejected trumps witnessing to one whose final destination extends far deeper than the ocean floor.
God loved us so much, He gave His only Son to save the lost. He never stops weeping over those who choose to look the other way. And more so, His hand of grace and love remain extended,waiting for those lives to believe and grasp hold.
Procrastination eases our consciences until we hear of planes that go down, unexpected heart attacks, car accidents, and so on. Then our spirits are jolted into shock. We can be catalysts for sharing the news of eternal life. Caring enough to share before a person dies has to be paramount. After they've left the earth's surface, all the concern is – a dated headline. It is past.
Listen for the pings of lost souls and be part of the search and recovery of those who are slipping into eternity never choosing heaven as their final destination.
(Photo courtesy of office.microsoft.com)
Dawn Mooring is an experienced speaker, teacher, and author. She has been published in The Upper Room, Christian Devotions, Inspireafire, and is a guest blogger for several ministries. Dawn has counseling certification through Grace Ministries International and in women’s ministry through American Association of Christian Counselors. Her passion is to know God and His Word and to share the abundant life found in Christ. Dawn is a television co-host on The Christian View. She has been a guest on the television programs Atlanta Live, Friends & Neighbors, and Babbie’s House. For more info, check out www.dawnmooring.com, and read her devotion blog. Dawn has written two Bible studies. Her latest book When Lions Roar (How to Tame a Wild Tongue) is now available on Amazon.com.