This recording was first introduced to me in the mid-70s where it made such an impact! It is an allegory of our last journey from earth to the afterlife by way of an aircraft, of all things. Woven together with scripture, hymns and commentary, the pastor who put this recording together, Rev. Forrest McCullough, was inspired to do so in 1965 on a flight home from attending his father’s funeral.
While it may not be your thing, I happen to love the old hymns and am truly blessed by this again and again for it fills me with hope and joy! I am sure if it was re-done in our world today, we would come up with many more current and applicable songs and hymns to go with this theme!
Recently, I was privileged to sit with an Assisted Living resident at my former place of employment. She had become such a dear friend to me and when it was clear that the end of life for her was imminent, I sought permission to spend some time with her. Though not sure she was fully aware of my presence, I was praying and singing at her bedside when I was unexpectedly reminded of this recording from so long ago.
Later that night, as I lay in my own bed trying to sleep, I wondered if this recording was still available since memories of it made me want to listen again. Sure enough, I found it on YouTube! And so I was blessed all over again! Oh, the hope I experienced through this both then and now! The reality of life forever with Jesus – to know Him and to look on His face when our life here is over! I had a fitful night, as tears intermingled with prayers were followed by joy as I awakened with a sweet measure of peace the next morning!
Later in the day I learned that my dear friend left this life at 2:30am, just hours after our visit. What a joy to know that she is with our Lord and no longer suffering! While her daughter feels strongly that she was just waiting to say good-bye to me before letting go of this life, I cannot pretend to know how that works, but am truly honored to have known her briefly near the end of her days on this earth.
My sweet friend was 97 years old and so ready to make her final journey on that glorious night! I daresay that few of us will be given as many years, but all of us will leave this life and our earthly bodies in God’s time. May we be ready and full of assurance and hope for our individual journeys!