Written by Linda L. Kruschke, guest blogger

I first heard “I’ll Fly Away” at the memorial service for Ruth, my husband’s maternal grandmother. Ruth had a strong faith, just like her namesake in the Old Testament. 

She held a special place in my heart—even though I only knew her the last five years of her life—because she was the first person my husband told, “I’ve met the woman I’m going to marry” the day after he met me. Then she loaned him her Buick to take me on our first official date.

Although everyone in the family was heartbroken when Ruth died, her service had an air of celebration. Ruth knew where she was going—she flew away to glory. I knew, if I believed in Jesus, I’d see her again someday. 

I have since collected many renditions of this great hymn on my iPod. It reminds me of God’s promise through the words of Jesus: My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. (John 14:2–3 (NIV).

Jesus prepared a place for Ruth. He prepared a place for me to one day fly away to as well. He has faithfully prepared a place for all who believe.

Comforting Lyrics

This life can be hard. Ruth knew this. Her battle with diabetes got the better of her some days, but she never lost her faith. She experienced hardship and ill health, but looked ever forward to her great reward.

I can relate. Between fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis, both chronic conditions, there is seldom a day when I don’t feel any pain. There have been times when the physical pain has been almost unbearable. And chronic physical pain can lead to emotional and spiritual pain as well.

At just the right time, when I don’t know if I can go on, this hymn will play. I might be driving to work dreading trying to work through the pain or sitting in my living room with a heating pad on my neck. The lyrics of this hymn will kindle hope and strength as I hear:
Just a few more weary days and then
I’ll fly away
To a land where joy shall never end
I’ll fly away

These words remind me that the trials of this life are temporary, but the joy of heaven is eternal. I may feel weary now, but my joy will never end. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all (2 Corinthians 4:17 NIV).

A Rousing Rendition

When my time comes to go to my eternal home, I want “I’ll Fly Away” played at my memorial service. I want my family to pick a rousing rendition, like the one performed by Charlie Daniels, with festive fiddles, peppy piano, and enthusiastic electric guitar. I want everyone to dance and sing along to celebrate my home going. 

And if anyone asks why such a happy song is being played, I want them to hear the gospel message of God’s grace and favor.

Linda L. Kruschke writes candid memoir and fearless poetry, and delves into hard issues others tend to avoid. She aspires to show women that God’s redemption and healing are just a story away. She blogs at AnotherFearlessYear.net, AnchoredVoices.com, and BrokenBelievers.com, and has been published in Fathom Magazine, The Christian Journal, Bible Advocate, iBelieve.com, WeToo.org blog, The Mighty, and several anthologies.