Tombstones help us live better lives. When I lived in Hardwick Massachusetts, I was fond of visiting the local graveyard. It had many old graves marked with slate headstones. They were very interesting and easy to use for gravestone, rubbings. My favorite had the following inscription. In memory of Cap. Ebenezer Cox Who died March the 2nd 1768 In the 42nd tear of his age Beneath this stone a noble captain; laid Which for his King and country was displayed His courage that no terror could disarm Nor when he faced his foe did fear alarm But now he’s conquered and the grave can boast The French could never have Under his care his soldiers were secure Equal with them all hardships he endured In six campaigns intrepid trod the field Nor to the Gallic power would ever yield At last he’s gone we’re wars do cease To spend a whole eternity in peace Oh, it can be very interesting to visit graveyards. You can learn some history, and you can think about the lives of those who have gone before us. Some stones are even humorous. There is one in the graveyard near where we live now. He must’ve been a hypochondriac. The stone says, “ I told you I was sick.” It can be an interesting, spiritual exercises to consider what you would like people to put on your grave stone. Growing up my family used to say this about me. “He is very talented. He just has no humility.” How can I in all humility say I’ve been successful in gaining some. I hope no one puts that on my stone. I’d rather it say something more like this.
The Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Schmitt Child of God Devoted Husband Caring Pastor Dependable Friend Musician Poet Author Photographer God’s Peaceful Smithy May he rest in peace May 22, 1949 – May 22, 2049
I’m sure that would be more expensive than the stone itself. I’m also sure my people will settle for something shorter, On the other hand I’m planning to have my ashes buried somewhere on our property in Arkansas no stone needed. Really, I’m just trying to prompt your meditation upon what you want people to see about you when you die. Not that any of us are in a rush. Rather, it is an exercise to take seriously how we are living our lives now every day.
Daily Disciplines
What daily spiritual disciplines are we following that will help us develop our character in ways that are beneficial to us, and to the people for whom we care. I have become quite a fan of Dr. Jordan B Peterson and his rules for life. Two of my favorites are clean your room and do your best to be just a little bit better person tomorrow then you have them today. Of course, as a Christian pastor, I would be remiss if I didn’t also encourage us all in the common discipleship practices: daily prayer, regular Bible, study, meditation, confession, and Sunday worship. To this, it is also important to add participation in a small accountability/prayer group.
Small Groups
I have been in the same small group since 2001. We have supported each other through any trials. We all participate together in the Kairos prison ministry. Two of us have been widowed one just had open heart surgery, The other three have been a constant support. If you are not currently in such a group, I highly recommend it.
Daily Devotionals
There are many publications of daily inspirational messages. The Methodist is The Upper Room. Episcopalians have Forward Day by Day. My late wife, Lily, used God Calling, and The Daily Guidepost.
Bible
I have on several occasions, used the book of proverbs for meditation. There are 31 chapters. Thus you can read one a day each month. It is a good discipline to go through them each month for a year. Finally, I would also suggest that it is good to participate in some kind of concrete ministry for others. My passion is for the Kairos Prison Ministry. Over the years, I’ve also been involved in food, cupboards, and other social outreach programs. The church I am attending regularly, provides regular meals for the homeless. There are many such programs. If you are not already participating in one, ask the Lord in your prayer time to lead you to something meaningful. In closing, I pray this post will encourage you to think about your tombstone as a way to guide you into our meaningful, spiritual life.