Facing the reality of our mortality is never easy, but it can be a great act of love and clarity—both for ourselves and for the ones we leave behind. Recently, my 88-year-old mother began to work through her end-of-life decisions. As a family, we’re deeply grateful for her courage and clarity. Her example reminded me how important it is to write down these decisions before the time comes.
This blog is a guide for anyone who wants to make wise, God-honoring choices and provide peace of mind for their loved ones. Whether you’re in your 80s, 60s, or younger, preparing well is a gift to those who walk with you to the finish line of this life—and a way to finish strong.
Part 1: Spiritual Reflections
- Have I made peace with God?
- Am I confident in my salvation through Jesus Christ?
- Have I expressed my faith to my loved ones clearly?
- Do I want a spiritual advisor or pastor to walk with me in my final season?
- Is there someone I’d like to pray with regularly?
- Have I written down any Scriptures or worship songs that bring me peace?
- Have I shared any final blessings, encouragements, or words of love with my family?
- Letters to children, grandchildren, or close friends
- Video or audio recordings if writing is difficult
Part 2: Medical & Health Care Decisions
- Do I have a valid and current Advance Health Care Directive (Living Will)?
- Have I clearly stated my wishes regarding life support, resuscitation (DNR), and organ donation?
- Who is my designated Health Care Proxy (Power of Attorney for Health)?
- Have I talked with this person about my values and preferences?
- Have I discussed options like palliative care, hospice, or comfort care?
- What are my thoughts about where I would prefer to spend my final days: at home, in a hospital, or in a care facility?
Part 3: Legal & Financial Planning
- Do I have a valid Will or Estate Plan?
- Have I named an executor and updated the Will to reflect my current wishes?
- Do I have a Power of Attorney for financial decisions?
- Who will handle my banking, bills, and financial matters if I cannot?
- Have I listed all important documents and where to find them?
- Will, birth certificate, property deeds, insurance policies, passwords, and bank info
- Have I preplanned or prepaid my funeral, burial, or cremation arrangements?Have I written down my preferences (burial vs. cremation, location, type of service)?
Part 4: Family Conversations and Legacy
- Have I had conversations with my children or close family about my decisions?
- Are they aware of what I’ve written down and why I’ve chosen it?
- Have I shared stories, testimonies, or family history that I want remembered?
- Family traditions, answered prayers, miracles, and memories
- Have I expressed how I want to be remembered?
- What do I want people to say at my memorial?
- What legacy do I hope to leave spiritually, relationally, and practically?
Part 5: Practical Suggestions
- Keep all important documents together in one place and let your family know where that is.
- Update your documents every few years, especially after major life changes.
- Write with grace and clarity—your tone will bring peace and love to those who read your wishes later.
- Consider having a trusted family member or advisor present when discussing these decisions to ensure unity and understanding.
Closing Thoughts
The Bible reminds us in Psalm 90:12, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Planning for the end of life isn’t morbid—it’s wise, loving, and God-honoring. If you or a loved one are in this season, take courage. Every decision made ahead of time is a burden lifted later.
We can’t control when we leave this life, but we can choose how we prepare. May we finish well—faithful to the end, at peace with God, and a blessing to those we love.
