I never followed the life of Anna Nicole Smith, but news of her sudden death hits me with a deep sadness. In spite of any flaws or struggles magnified by the absurdity of a fame driven culture, a human person whose life seemed so tragic has died. Death mocks the arrogance of human accomplishment. So many of us strive and struggle and long for the things Ms. Smith enjoyed like wealth and fame.

Do these bring loving relationships? Can these repair the wounds of a broken heart? More often, they magnify the flaws and fragilities of the person. Regardless of IQ, wealth, power, and all human achievements, death wins. And the wonders of our majesty fade faster than the fresh grave grows grass.

My hope is in a love that cannot be stopped–even by death. The resurrecting love of Christ does not make me other-worldly, hoping for some escape from this miserable planet, but rather it reveals that vindication is real, justice is true and love really does conquor the absurdity of death. This love of Jesus reveals a pattern to me of self-giving love that lets go of everything and is free to embrace, to sacrifice, to trust. I rest in the love of living Savior and am free to love those around me. And I hope in a love that will ultimately renew this whole world.

As I reflect on the faithful love of Christ, my heart aches for the pain of Ms. Smith. Lord have mercy upon her. And Lord have mercy upon the aching souls starved for love wandering in the desert of life-sucking, relationship killing abundance.