Beatrice Fediuk died in Winnipeg at the age of 94.
She was neither well-known nor a society standout. But when the Winnipeg Free Press printed her obituary, everyone noticed.
She wrote it herself. Instead of an obituary, she called it her resume for heaven. It began, “Dear Lord, please accept my application for Eternal Life.”
The column told of her birth on October 27, 1922, to her parents. As with most obituaries, it had a list of survivors, including a husband, daughter, and grandchildren.
Beatrice shared memories. “Lord, you know that (as a teacher) I never had any ‘teacher’s pets.’ Rather, I put my heart into teaching those with learning challenges, or difficult family situations. It was here that I feel I did my best work. … I also continued volunteer work, knitting scarves for underprivileged children.”
It concluded with, “Lord, I hope that you will find that I have met my Objectives and deserve a place in Your heavenly home. You know where to find me to further discuss my qualifications.”
The truth is we all write an obituary with our lives. Most write it with an eye on the earth left behind. Yet, the best ones are written with an eye toward eternity.
Jesus said,
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, ESV)
When lights shine today, God prepares a place in heaven. What will go in your obituary?
-Robert G. Taylor-
