Having lost his beloved wife of many years, a 96-year-old man shared the deep longing of his heart with a retired pastor as he said, “There’s nothing I want more than to be with my wife again.”

The minister replied, “I can understand that, but if she has gone to heaven and you don’t profess to be a Christian, what hope do you have of being with her when you die?” After thinking for a few moments, the man blurted out the sad confession, “You’re right—the thought of leaving this life terrifies me. I’m sick of living but afraid of dying!”

What a sharp contrast to Paul’s outlook. The apostle was willing to live or to die. He desired to be with Christ in heaven but would gladly remain on earth to continue his ministry (Phil. 1:21).

You may not be as desperate as that 96-year-old man. Life may be enjoyable for you, but are you prepared to face eternity? If so, you can say with the psalmist, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me” (Ps. 23:4).

If not, receive the gift of eternal life that God offers today. By trusting Christ as your personal Savior, you will find joy in living and victory in dying!

  — Richard De Haan