Birth and death. The beginning and the ending of life. Today 10,000 babies will be born in the United States and 8,500 of us will die. Birth is expected. We even say of a mother, “She is EXPECTING.” You get a nine-month warning with birth, but death is unexpected. We know it’s coming. We know we are going to die; we just don’t know when. We like to hear about babies being born. We tell everyone about the new addition to the family. We show off the pictures. But death gets little attention. Most of us are uncomfortable with the subject, especially in the U.S. In Mexico, they celebrate death with Día de los Muertos, The Day of the Dead. (It’s next Sunday and Monday, November 1-2.) In the U.S. we don’t talk about the fact that we are going to die. Not talking about it doesn’t make death any less real. When David was nearing the end of life he told his son, Solomon, “I am going the way of all the earth. Be strong, therefore, and show yourself a man.” 1 Kings 2:2. That had to have been uncomfortable for Solomon to hear, but they needed to have that talk. The throne of Israel needed to be passed on. Arrangements needed to be made. We may not be royalty, but when we pass from this earth certain arrangements need to be made. Have you made those arrangements? I know it’s one of the most uncomfortable subjects to discuss, but I have watched many a family whose deceased loved one left no instructions, no preparation and they struggle to set things in order. And don’t rely on verbal instruction. Write it out. Have written down somewhere what your wishes are when you are no longer here. Do it now. Do it this week, because none of us are guaranteed next week. More importantly, make sure you and God are on good terms. Leave this life knowing your sins have been forgiven and heaven awaits