This is it: Michael Jackson

It was a grand finale planned for the King of Pop.

For This Is It, Michael Jackson’s 50 sold-out shows at London’s o2 arena, fans had shelled out $85 million for 750,000 tickets.

The extended stretch of performances were to be spectacular.  According to USA Today:  “A hovering orb, a flaming bed, mutant spiders, 20-foot puppets, 3-D effects, pyrotechnics and the return of the crooning, spinning, moonwalking King of Pop.”  These shows were reported to be “the biggest, most spectacular live production ever seen.”

The man was reportedly on his game.  After 3 months of solid rehearsal, Jackson was said to be “energetic, passionate, diligent, prepared, excited and an effective leader.”  He was said to be “the same Michael Jackson we (saw) through the years in music videos.”

His last few years haunted by debt and negative press, Jackson no doubt had planned for these comeback shows to burnish his tarnished image and bolster his depleted bank accounts.

And then – two and a half weeks before the first show – Michael Jackson died.  Unexpectedly and apparently without warning, his soul was required of him.

Another reminder that the way of a man is not in himself, that it is not in man who walks to direct his steps, as the prophet of old has said.

Or, as another wrote: Man proposes and God disposes.

Are you ready?

To prepare for life beyond life, read more here.

(HT:  Robyn Lees, CI colleague)