I draw a deep breath and put pen to paper. But the words won’t flow. Not yet. I pause for a moment to gather my thoughts. I know I need to prepare an expression of sympathy, to write out a letter of condolence to a friend who has suffered a tragic loss. I want him to know my love, my support, my comfort in this, his hardest hour. I picture the one who lived and then died, who flourished for a time, but who was soon gone like the flowers that fade, like the dust that blows in the wind. And I see once again the fleeting nature of life.

Life is fleeting—fleeting like the dew that settles to the grass in the dark of night, but then burns away with the earliest heat of the morning.
Life is fleeting—fleeting like the leaves of the tree that open in the spring, that catch the light of the sun through the summer, but that fall to the ground in the first cool days of autumn.
Life is fleeting—fleeting like the lily that blooms in the darkness of night, that displays its beauty for a single day, but that by evening fades and wilts away. It is here today but gone tomorrow and its place knows it no more.
Life is fleeting—fleeting like the mist that rises in the cool morning air but is then blown away by the gentlest breeze. It is fleeting like the spring snow that falls from a cold sky but melts the moment it touches the warm ground. It is fleeting like a ship that fades into the distance and sails over the far horizon, fleeting like a train that rushes past with a roar and is gone. Scarcely do we draw our first breath before we draw our last. Scarcely do we open our eyes before we close them once more. Scarcely do we live before we die.
No wonder the Sage says, “If a person lives many years, let him rejoice in them all; but let him remember that the days of darkness will be many. All that comes is vanity”—vapor, smoke, dust. There is a time to live and a time to die. But the time to live seems so short and the time to be dead so long.
Still I must believe that though life is fleeting, life is precious. Though life is over so soon, it matters so much. For though life ends, it continues, for though we sleep in the dust, we rise again. Time is bound to eternity. Hence, “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.” It is through life that we prepare for death and through the life we live in this world that we prepare for the life we will live in the next.
So life is precious—precious like the gold that adorned the temple where God’s people went to bow and to worship, to serve and to sacrifice.
Life is precious—precious like the blood spread hastily on the doorposts, the blood of the passover lamb that distinguished Israelite from Egyptian, objects of mercy from objects of wrath.
Life is precious—precious like the jewels upon the High Priest as he entered the Holy of Holies to sprinkle blood on the Atonement Seat, to seek God’s favor for another year.
Life is precious—precious like the pearl a merchant found that was of such great value that he sold all that he had to acquire it and regarded it as the best of all bargains. It is precious like treasure hidden in a field, precious like the gates of pearl in the New Jerusalem, precious like its streets of gold.
And so both are true and neither diminishes the other. Life is fleeting and fragile but precious and so very meaningful. Though it is short, it is significant. Though it inevitably ends, it matters so much. Though it is but a blip and a dash, it is of the highest worth.
And with that in mind, I can prepare an expression of sympathy that accounts for both the significance of a life lived and the tragedy of a life lost, for both the sorrow of a life that has ended and the joy of a life that will never end.

If you’re looking for something to give out alongside candy this Halloween, Westminster Books has a deal for you.

There’s a nice little list of Kindle deals to go through this morning.
(Yesterday on the blog: Build a Stronger Marriage)
Friend, You Can Be Ready to Die
Ray Ortlund: “Years ago I read somewhere that, during the Victorian era, people talked often about death, and sex was the taboo subject. By now we have flipped it. We talk freely about sex, and death is the taboo subject. To me, what’s odd is this: even Christians shy away from talking about death. For crying out loud, we’re going to heaven! Why should we fear anything? Our Lord died and rose again — for us.”
What Does “Leaving and Cleaving” Mean For Marriages in India?
I’m always fascinated to see how different cultures obey the same commands. “In fifteen years of being a pastor in Delhi and counselling couples who are struggling in their marriages, one issue causes the greatest amount of marital discord: the unwillingness to ‘leave and cleave.’ One or both spouses are unable or unaware of prioritising their spouse over their parents. In my experience, many problems in marriage can be traced back to this root cause.”
Authorized: The Use and Misuse of the King James Bible
I’m glad that this documentary was made free on YouTube. “In this surprisingly entertaining film, Dr. Mark Ward explores the challenges facing readers of the King James Bible today. He shows why every English reader can benefit from today’s translations—and why you might not be as fluent in KJV English as you think.”
Say the Quiet Things, Out Loud
Kristin wants to encourage you to say the quiet things out loud.
Australian Football Executive Forced to Resign, Prompting Debate about Religious Liberty
CT reports on what may well be a bellwether situation in Australia. “He lasted 30 hours. Andrew Thorburn, a former banker, was appointed chief executive of Essendon Football Club on September 27. A little more than a day later, he was forced to resign from the prominent ‘footy’ club because of his connection to a conservative Melbourne church.”
Is Sermon Application Legalism?
“Some pastors think that to become great at sermon application, you need to develop a certain skill. Whereas there is skill involved in crafting sermon application, excellent sermon application doesn’t begin with skill acquisition; it begins with shaping what you believe about sermon application.”
Flashback: Don’t Expect Unbelievers To Act Like Believers
So often I see Christians acting surprised that their non-Christian friends or family members are acting like non-Christians. John Owen addresses this in his great work Overcoming Sin and Temptation.

What other book besides the Bible could be heard in public assemblies from year to year, with an attention that never tires, and an interest that never cloys? —Robert Hall

Every month I put together a roundup of new and notable books for grownup readers. But I also receive a lot of books for kids and teens, so like to put together the occasional roundup of these books as well. So today I bring you a whole big batch of new books for kids of all ages (up to and including teens)

Seek and Find: More Old Testament Bible Stories: With over 450 Things to Find and Count! by Sarah Parker. Seek-and-find book exploring eight more Old Testament stories, the characters within them and the character of our amazing God. Seek & Find: More Old Testament Bible Stories contains eight more stories from the Old Testament with over 450 hidden things for young children to find, count, and sort as they interact with the Bible stories. Both the retellings and illustrations are biblically faithful and children will learn all about eight well-known Old Testament characters, including Joseph, Elijah and Esther.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

God’s Big Promises Bible Story Prayers: 101 Prayers for Children by Carl Lafterton. “Pray with your children in response to Bible truths using this beautifully illustrated book of prayers. Each page begins with a Bible-story summary and a verse from the Bible, followed by a responsive prayer. Children will learn to say wow, thank you, sorry and please as they get to know God better. There are even actions to go with each response! Features: 92 prayers that relate to the 92 stories featured in God’s Big Promises Bible Storybook, so you can use this prayer book alongside the Bible Storybook; 9 additional prayers specifically for bedtime that are based on Bible verses. They will help kids to give thanks and know that God is with them as they go to sleep; An index of prayers at the back linking to prayers for particular circumstances or feelings, such as prayers when feeling anxious, prayers when feeling tired, and prayers when feeling scared.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

It Is Well with My Soul (Hymns for Little Ones). “It Is Well with My Soul introduces little ones to the one of the most timeless, enduring anthems of the Christian faith in a fun and colorful way. Celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2023, It Is Well with My Soul has given strength and solace to generations of believers. This beloved hymn is a powerful reminder of God’s promise of peace amid life’s most daunting trials. Now little ones can experience the comfort and reassurance of this Christian classic for the first time. The lyrics are paired with whimsical watercolor art that celebrates the joy and wonder of God’s world. In the back of the book, you’ll find the sheet music and lyrics. Hymns for Little Ones is a series of creative and colorful board books that introduce young children to the most inspiring and influential Christian anthems of all time. Little ones will learn truths about God in the lyrics of these impactful hymns.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

C Is for Christian: An A-Z Treasury of Who We Are in Christ by Alistair Begg. “Excite kids about how great it is to be a Christian with this beautifully illustrated treasury of theological truths. Going from A to Z, kids will learn about the amazing things that are true of us if we know Christ. For example: A is for Adoption – we are children of God, part of his beloved family; B is for Branch – we are connected to Jesus, the vine, and he gives us life and all we need; C is for Citizen – we have a place in heaven, which is where we are heading. Each letter teaches children about an aspect of our identity in Christ using Bible verses and clear engaging teaching by Alistair Begg. Reflection questions and prayers are included, making it possible to use this resource devotionally. It can also be used as a kind of catechism, summarizing some of the Bible’s truths about being a Christian. The alphabet format makes these theological truths easy to remember. Can be read to kids 4+ or read by kids 7+.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

Arlo and the Keep-Out Club by Betsy Childs Howard. “Arlo has been longing to play with the big boys on the playground. But when he’s given the opportunity to join their club, he is faced with a tough decision. Will he gain the acceptance of his new friends by doing what he knows is wrong, or will he do the right thing even though it may lead to rejection? Going against the social grain can often leave us feeling lonely, but in his grace, Jesus enables us to do what is right and stays by our side when we feel left out. Written for kids ages 3–7, this engaging picture book teaches children that following Jesus may come at a cost, but the Lord offers a greater reward as our ultimate friend and comforter. A section for parents at the end of the book provides tips for raising children who can resist negative peer pressure.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

Who Are You?: A Little Book about Your Big Identity by Christina Fox. “Kids have an innate curiosity to explore and discover new things about themselves—they learn their strengths and talents, their preferences and quirks, all while celebrating little victories along the way. While these milestones are undoubtedly important for developing children, our culture mistakenly views them as the foundation of who they are. Deeply biblical and visually engaging, this picture book uses lyrical rhymes to help children ages 3–5 understand that their true identity is not found in their preferences, past actions, or current emotions. Instead, it is rooted in their relationship with their Creator and Savior. The one who fashioned them in his likeness and calls them to live a life for his glory. A note to parents section at the end of the book offers practical tips and additional Bible verses for instilling these truths in children as they navigate the world and build the foundation of their lives.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

Jesus Moments: Moses: Finding Jesus in the Story of Moses by Alison Mitchell. “Help 4-7s learn how Moses points to Jesus with this beautifully illustrated Old Testament storybook from Alison Mitchell, the award-winning author of Jesus and the Lions’ Den and The One O’Clock Miracle. Moments in Moses’ story when something in the story is a little bit like Jesus are signposted with symbols that children need to spot, helping them to understand the relationship between the Old and New Testaments. This fun, interactive resource will give children skills to read the Bible as they connect the stories and learn that the whole Bible is about Jesus. Great for parents or grandparents to give children aged 4-7. Can also be used for children’s ministry in church.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

Something Scary Happened: Helping Children with Trauma by Darby Strickland. “Miles is a happy little lamb until something bad happens. All of a sudden, Miles feels like he is alone in a deep dark valley, but it is there in the valley that he meets his good Shepherd who promises to always be with him, no matter what. Counselor and trauma expert Darby A. Strickland uses the story of Miles to help parents and caregivers share the comfort of taking their fears to the good Shepherd by applying Psalm 23 to difficult experiences. Through a special section at the end of the book, Strickland helps parents recognize the feelings and behaviors children might have in response to their trauma and guides them in how to help children talk about what scared them.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

The Big Big Big Christmas (That Was Also Very Small) by Mei Shan Dibble. “The wonder of the incarnation told in a fresh, funny and child-friendly way This hilarious series of zany comparisons that get bigger and bigger will help children discover just how big God is and how completely mind-blowingly amazing it is that he became a tiny baby at Christmas.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

Joni Eareckson Tada: The Girl Who Learned to Follow God in a Wheelchair by Kristyn Getty. “In this beautifully illustrated hardback, Kristyn Getty recounts Joni Eareckson Tada’s lively childhood, life-changing accident and challenging adjustment to a very different way of life, and shares how God has used her in amazing ways to bless others. Children will hear how, when a terrible diving accident left her severely disabled, Joni was left with a lot of questions about God. It was easy to trust him when she was healthy and happy, but did she want to follow him now that life was so hard? As young ones discover how God cared for Joni and how Joni held on to her faith and used her circumstances to love others, they’ll be inspired about the great things they can do for God. And they’ll be encouraged to be a friend to those with disabilities or in hard situations.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

The Long Road Home: A Tale of Two Sons and a Father’s Never-Ending Love by Sarah Walton (coming on October 29). “In this creative retelling of the parable of the Prodigal Son, the youngest son, Wander, was willing to give up everything for his independence―including a relationship with his father and brother Goodness. With his father’s cash in hand, he left for the alluring towns of Perfection, Prosperity, and Popularity. Each new town brought a brief sense of happiness, but eventually, as the excitement wore off, he was overcome by a deepening sense of emptiness. It was then that Wander remembered his father’s words, ‘Wherever you go, my son, I want you to remember that I love you with a never-ending love.’ The Long Road Home retells this powerful parable in a creative and understandable way for children ages 6–8. As kids hear about Wander’s difficult experiences and discuss them with their parents, they will learn joy is not found within themselves or in the world. Instead, children will rediscover the never-ending love of their heavenly Father, who gives them worth, hope, and identity when they put their trust in him.” (Buy it at Amazon)

Little Christmas Carol: The Illustrated Edition by Joe Sutphin. “Enjoy Charles Dickens’ beloved masterpiece, freshly imagined within an enchanting woodland realm. In 1843, Charles Dickens penned a story–a classic Christmas tale full of ghosts and the endearing humbug Ebenezer Scrooge. That story—which has captivated readers for over 150 years—is now accompanied by the delightful illustrations of Joe Sutphin. With charming woodland characters and settings that families will adore, readers will be transformed by A Little Christmas Carol. A tale of greed, regret, loneliness, reflection, compassion, hope, and a joyfully changed life, this beautifully illustrated edition will enliven the timeless classic for readers young and old. For the perfect family read-aloud, make A Little Christmas Carol a part of your family’s Christmas tradition. This new edition makes a wonderful gift.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

Promises Made Promises Kept: A Family Devotional for Christmas by Marty Machowski. “Marty Machowski’s Promises Made Promises Kept shows families how the birth and life of Jesus fulfilled God’s Old Testament promises of a Savior. Start a new family tradition for the Christmas season by reading this ‘upside-down’ book that includes fourteen Bible stories. Begin the week before Christmas with the first side, Promises Made which has seven stories that explore the Old Testament prophecies of the coming Messiah. On Christmas Day, flip the book over and continue by reading Promises Kept with seven more stories that vividly illustrate how Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection and the beginning of the church fulfill God’s promises. Machowski weaves the promises and fulfillments together into one harmonized story that will deepen the family’s faith in God’s power and control over all of history and their lives too. Each story also includes questions for the family to discuss together.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

Abigail and the Career Day Catastrophe: It’s Time to Be a Hero… Right? By Bethany McIlrath. “It’s nearly Career Day, and 9-year-old Abigail is trying to decide what she wants to be when she grows up. She wants to do something that will please God and her family, so she decides she will be a missionary police officer–a job that she thinks means behaving perfectly and making sure everyone else does too! But all her efforts seem to backfire. After some helpful Bible teaching from her loved ones about the story of Paul’s conversion, Abigail rethinks what it means to please God and to ‘be good’! This fun, relatable story will help kids to realize that it’s only through Jesus that we can please God. And with the Holy Spirit’s help, they can become more like Jesus and do good works with him. This is the second book in the Abigail series, a fictional series for readers aged 7 and up that follows the adventures of 9-year-old Abigail as she figures out what faith means for her everyday life. Young readers will be inspired to read the Bible, talk to God and apply what they believe to their own lives.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

Anne Bradstreet by Simonetta Carr. “Did you know that the first published poet in America was a woman? As an American colonist, Anne Bradstreet’s poems give us a unique window into early colonial life. In this Christian Biography for Young Readers, Simonetta Carr shows us how Bradstreet overcame opposition from those who thought only men should write to produce beautiful poetry that encourages the church today. Complete with excerpts from her writings and engaging illustrations, Bradstreet’s story will remind you of the beauty of God’s creation, His faithfulness, and His unfailing promises.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

John and Charles Wesley: Two Brothers, One Faith by David Luckman. “Discover the inspiring story of John and Charles Wesley, two brothers who left an indelible mark on Christian history.  Step into the 18th century and meet John and Charles Wesley, brothers whose unwavering faith sparked a spiritual revolution. Witness their transformative journey from the humble English countryside to the heart of a movement that changed the course of Christianity. Marvel at the thrilling tales of faith, courage, and resilience as the Wesley brothers navigate challenges, triumphs, and divine encounters. From the vibrant Oxford University to the bustling streets of London, this biography paints a vibrant tapestry of their lives, making history come alive for young readers.” (Buy it at Amazon)

Track: Politics: A Student’s Guide to Politics by Joshua Wester. “Joshua Wester encourages young adults to view politics through the lens of their Christian faith, and to test their beliefs against the Bible. People say that religion and politics shouldn’t mix, but God has a lot to say about how we live together. Politics touches many things in our lives, and so, as Christians, we should examine our political beliefs in the light of what God says. Joshua Wester tackles crucial topics that young adults should be thinking about as they think about how they engage with the political process and get involved in conversations about politics. The Bible calls us to be good citizens who love God and love our neighbour—how does that affect how we vote? An invaluable guide for those seeking to engage with the political process.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

Gospel 101 for Teens: Learning, Living, and Sharing the Gospel by Jeff Dodge. “The gospel is the most powerful message in the world—it’s God’s dynamite to change hearts, lives, and communities. In Gospel 101 for Teens, Jeff Dodge communicates the good news of Jesus in a clear, understanding, and compelling way, inviting students to grow in gospel fluency, community, and action. Gospel 101 for Teens serves as an introductory-level course on the ‘big picture’ message of redemption. It equips teens with the language of the gospel to confidently move past the fear of sharing their faith with friends and classmates. By learning to share the gospel in their own words and explain why it matters, teens will be ready to communicate this message in a life-giving, clear, and personal way.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)

Finding My Vocation: A Guide for Young People Seeking a Calling by William Boekestein. “How can I pick the right job? Actually, you don’t need to choose a job that’s ‘perfect for you.’ But you do need to be faithful and productive in ways that honor God in your work life. Here’s a better question: As a believer, how can I determine what I am supposed to do, and then do it well? The doctrine of calling, or vocation, leads us to the answer. Because for those who are ‘called according to his purpose’ (Rom. 8:28), God provides a place, a time, and the gifts necessary to work for him in this world. God placed us in his world to work for his glory. You might not know exactly what he has planned for you, but you must—and can—be faithful where he calls you to be.” (Buy it at Amazon or Westminster Books)