Randy was somewhat of a hypochondriac throughout his life. His fear of catching a disease or getting cancer caused him to become a recluse in his house. He gave up gathering with family, attending Church or even taking a walk in the park. All of these things seemed like they posed danger to him. For decades, in pursuit of preserving his life, he was forfeiting the living of life. He had become the biggest loser.

As Christians we don’t live in such paralysis of fear, even though certain areas of our lives may reflect it still. Many people admit they avoid planning their estate because they are afraid if they talk about the end of their lives that talk will make it a reality. This is choosing to live in fear rather than faith. It is true that end of life planning does acknowledge there is an end coming, but it’s not really end of life. It’s just the end of current circumstances, for life lasts forever in Jesus, who conquered death by rising from the dead.

With that confidence we choose to use the legal tools of wills and trusts, constructed by our attorneys, to guide our affairs. But this process is more than just a legal transaction. It is an act of love, providing for family care. It is an act of love providing support for ministry so that countless more will hear the Gospel and come to faith in Jesus. Live in that faith and love. Express it in your plans. Your LCMS Foundation Gift Planning Counselor can help.

Jason Jones, CGP, CDE, is Saint John’s Gift Planning Counselor. Jason works with individuals in our congregation who want to discover the lifetime plan that God has planted in their heart. He will help them to use this plan to Transfer the Blessings God has given them to their family and the ministries they love. This service comes to you at no cost as a member of Saint John’s. To schedule a free meeting with Jason or ask questions about this special opportunity, visit www.StJohnsFC.org/transfer-the-blessings, call (970) 988-0305 or email Jason.Jones@lfnd.org.