The End of Life

 The end of life is an inevitable reality we all must face, and confronting it head-on requires courage and resilience. At 76 years old, having surpassed the average life expectancy of 74.8 years, I stand at a juncture where reflection and acceptance intertwine. Only yesterday, I was twenty—full of vitality, with no pain or chronic illness hindering my path. Those days were marked by endless possibilities and dreams waiting to be realized.

Today, my existence is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure amidst adversity. The Psalmist writes that the days of our years are threescore years and ten, and if because of strength, they are fourscore years, their strength is labor and sorrow, for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. This is human existence, life, and death.

 Daily pain has become a constant companion; diabetes affects my blood sugar levels, while poor eyesight blurs the world around me. My feet have lost their sensation, essential tremors shake my hands, kidney failure tests my body's limits, cancer has invaded my bloodstream, and chronic asthma makes every breath a conscious effort.

Yet despite these formidable challenges, there is an undeniable strength in acknowledging this phase of life with clarity and resolve. Recognizing the physical ailments and embracing each remaining moment with purpose and dignity is crucial. The end of life isn't merely about succumbing to ailments; it's about cherishing memories made along the way and finding peace in what lies ahead.

The end of life is a profound journey that can often leave us feeling battle-weary. The term "battle weary" originated from soldiers who have been on the battlefield too long and are exhausted by the relentless demands of warfare. Similarly, "battle fatigue" or "combat fatigue" manifests as depression, anxiety, and a loss of motivation due to the unyielding stress of active warfare. As Christians, we, too, can experience this weariness in our spiritual battles.

We are soldiers in the army of Christ (Ephesians 6:10-17), called to stand firm and fight for righteousness. Many have been on the frontlines for years, fighting for family members, friends, or other pressing issues. This continuous engagement can lead to spiritual exhaustion akin to combat fatigue.

But let us be clear: being battle-weary does not equate to defeat. It is a call to reassess our strategies and seek renewal through faith. We must remember that our strength comes from God's mighty power and that we are equipped with His armor for these challenges. We must acknowledge our weariness but refuse to succumb to it; instead, let it drive us closer to God's sustaining grace.

In these moments of fatigue, lean into your community of believers for support and encouragement. Take time for rest and reflection as you renew your spirit through prayer and scripture. Remember that even when weary, you remain a vital part of Christ's army—stronger together as we press forward with unwavering determination toward victory in His name.