Derrick's Death this Easter (15th April 2001)
My Plans were very clear. Methodical as usual, I had pre-planned my Easter weekend. Saturday night would be a vigil, followed by a party. Sunday meant lunch with the family - and this year instead of the traditional home cooked meal, the entire extended family had reservations at a restaurant! And, not to leave the night out, I had another party
But true to the thief in the night, the black shadow of death fell upon my family, when we lost my cousin Derrick of just 26 years.
Nobody wants to believe news like the one we received that Saturday night, still at church in the midst of all the Easter greetings. In fact it was so shocking we could not accept it. He had an asthma attack they said, died in 20 minutes. Just like that.
I question myself - am I ready to die? - And at 22 years that's not easy (though I wonder if age is a factor here). What does being prepared to die really mean? I believe that after I die, I will come face to face with my Maker, the Lord of Creation. And I'll have to account for my life whether it's 22 years or 82.
Will I be able to say that I've accomplished the purpose he put me here for? For truly we're not here just to study, work, marry & die. No, God has greater plans for us. It's us whom with our finite minds get stuck in the fast pace rat race of today - until death catches up with us - and it does.
Whether we bury our grandparents or our grandchildren the message is always the same - surely this is not the end?
The last memory I have of Derrick is dancing with him at his sister's wedding. I was bridesmaid and he my escort. Less that six months later, he was in that same suit, but with his eyes closed. Surely it was not the end... And the answer is clear - it's not! Derrick too rose with our Risen Saviour this Easter.
As sad as it is for those he left behind - particularly his parents, Derricks' earthly death is a wake up call. Get up and out of your daily routine. Ultimately we're all going to die. Get to know our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ NOW! - Don't wait till you're old (or older) or put off spirituality as something only for priests and the religious. God wants you and me - the laity to fully participate in His Divine Plan.
Join me now as I seek to discern God's plan for me & follow it, so that we can all enjoy Eternity together. With Derrick & our Lord Jesus Christ.
