Death has been in the air. Australia’s worst serial killer succumbed to cancer and has stood before God to give account. The pain of his victim’s families remains, but a further step towards closure may have been reached.
The press covered his death widely. More analysis, books and TV documentaries will follow; none are likely to deal with the real consequences of death and the Judgement of God that follows. “The Daily Telegraph” by Warren capped it off in a humorous yet misleading manner. He drew Satan at the gates of Hell with a “No Vacancy” sign facing the murderer and saying “Even I have Standards”
The death of ISIL founder Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi at the hands of US Special Forces was widely reported. He has faced God and the view is the world is better off without him. He approved the murder of many and made light of it, seeking publicity for his executions some involving children.
Death, Judgement, Heaven, Hell are no laughing matters. Hebrew 9:27 says: “…it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgement. “. It cannot be escaped by any. Salvation is not based on our merit but on God’s Grace alone and He can forgive the worst of sinners in our eyes.
This week some SRE teachers attended the funeral Mr Peter Taylor a much loved and respected teacher at OFPS who drowned in the holidays trying to save his son from a rip. His son made it to safety. Mr Taylor attended Fairy Meadow Catholic Church and he was a God fearer. He was most supportive of SRE and his calm and measured approach influenced hundreds of children over his career.
Which of the three left a positive legacy? Our prayers continue for his family, friends and colleagues.
– Geoff Kyngdon