Only One Life

A few months ago Robert and I attended the funeral for a dear brother in Christ - Ray Christopherson. He was 88 when he departed this world. The funeral was such a testament of his love for Christ and the life he lived in response to what His Savior had done for him on the Cross.

The following poem was printed in the program. Perhaps you are familiar, as was I, with the very last line of each stanza of this poem: "Only one life - 'twill soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last." I've read that one line and heard it spoken from the pulpit many times, but did not realize that it was just one of many lines of an entire poem. It was written by C. T. Studd, a missionary who gave up his life savings (and his will) to further the Kingdom of God.

This poem so typifies Ray's life. He led all nine of his siblings to the Lord and his father and mother also. He was an evangelist and spoke with anyone and everyone (without fear) about Christ and His sacrifice for sinners. He was a constant encouragement to all he came in contact with, showing us by his own life how to never cease serving the Lord and to never give into discouragement.

Ray is sorely missed. He brightened everyone's day with his contagious smile. But he is now having "the time of his life" (a phrase he used often to express his delight with living). He is worshiping His beloved Savior now, face to face, and forevermore. I am sure he is hearing from the Lord of Glory, "Well done, good and faithful servant".

Only One Life

by C.T. Studd

Two little lines I heard one day, traveling along life’s busy way;

Bringing conviction to my heart, and from my mind would not depart;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, soon will its fleeting hours be done;
Then, in ‘that day’ my Lord to meet, and stand before His Judgement seat;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, the still small voice, gently pleads for a better choice;
Bidding me selfish aims to leave, and to God’s holy will to cleave;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, a few brief years, each with its burdens, hopes and fears;

Each with its days I must fulfill, living for self or in His will;

Only one life - 'twill soon by past. Only what's done for Christ will last.

When this bright world would tempt me sore, when Satan a victory would score;

When self would seek to have its way, then help me, Lord, with joy to say, 

Only one life - 'twill soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last.

Give me Father, a purpose deep. In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep;

Faithful and true what e'er the strife. Pleasing Thee in my daily life;

Only one life - 'twill soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last.

Oh let my love with fervor burn. And from the world now let me turn;

Living for Thee, and Thee alone. Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;

Only one life - 'twill soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one. Now let me say, "Thy will be done"'

And when at last I'll hear the call, I know that I'll say "'Twas worth it all";

Only one life - 'twill soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last.

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Sharon Kaufman

Jesus Christ has been my Savior since 1975. Robert, the wonderful man that God provided to love me has been my husband for 48 of those years. We have five grown children, with children of their own. Of course, that means that we have grandchildren - ten to be exact, and nine great-grandchildren with another one on the way. I have been a stay-at-home mom, sometimes helping to supplement the income from within the home. Now I am a stay-at-home grandmother. Jesus Christ has been my guide and keeper and I have found, in all the trials, heartbreaks and good times that He just keeps getting sweeter and sweeter as the years roll by. My future is secure and I look forward to eternity in the presence of my Creator, Redeemer and King.