EPITAPHS

An epitaph is defined as, "An inscription upon a monument."

There are many such epitaphs that are inscribed on the tombstones of the deceased in country churchyard up and down the country.

"Here lieth the body of Martn Hyde he fell down a midden and grieviously died. James Hyde his brother fell down another. They now lie interred side by side."

"Erected to the memory of John McFarlane, drowned in the Water of Leith, by a few affectionate friends."

"M.S. DONALD ROBERTSON. Born 1 January 1785, Died 4 June 1848, Aged 63 years. He was a peaceable quiet man, and, to all appearance a sincere Christian. His death was very much regrettedwhich was caused by the stupidity of LAWRENCE TULLOCH of Clotherton who sold him Nitre instead of Epsom Salts by which he was killed in the space of three hours after taking a dose of it."

"Here lies interred the body of MARY HASELTON a young maiden of this town. Born of Roman Catholic parents and virtuously brought up. Who being in the act of prayer repeating her vespers was instantaneously killed by a flash of lightening August 16 1785, Aged 9 years."

"Sacred to the memory of Major James Brush who was killed by the accidental discharge of a pistol by his orderly, 14 April 1831. Well done good and faithful servant."

"Thorpes Corpse."

"Her lyeth Mistress Cissely Pickering, Anagrama `I sleep secure Christs my King. ` 17 June 1636."

"Here lies poor Charlotte who died no harlot- but in her virginity. Of the age nineteen, in this vicinity, rare to be found or seen."

There are many epitaphs recorded in the Bible to the men and women of God of old, would that we to would leave such a legacy behind!

Job 42:12-17 Job lived to see four generations of his children and grandchildren. Then he died an old man who had lived a long, good life.

Heb 11:4 although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us because of his faith.

Heb 11:5 before Enoch was taken, he was approved as pleasing to God.

Heb 11:7 By his faith he condemned the world and was made right in the sight of God.

Rom 4:3 Because Abraham believed God he was declared to be righteous.

Deut 34:10 God spoke to Moses face to face.

Jud 16:30 Samson killed more of the enemies of God in his death than in his entire lifetime.

1Sam 25:1 when Samuel died ALL Israel gathered for his funeral.

2Sam 1:19-27 records Davids eulogy for Saul and Jonathan.

1Sam 13:14 David was a man after Gods own heart.

2Kings 2:11-12 Elijah did not see death.

If these truly be the final days leading up to the Lord's return, then there can be no greater epitaph for any of us than this:

"They are spiritually undefiled, pure as virgins, following the Lamb wherever he goes. They have been purchased from among the people on the earth as a special offering to God and to the Lamb. NO FALSEHOOD CAN BE CHARGED AGAINST THEM; THEY ARE BLAMELESS." (Rev 14:4-5)

© 1996 By John L. Hayworth