As they were being crucified, one of the thief’s said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, TODAY YOU WILL BE WITH ME in paradise.” (Luke 23:42-43)
Why is there such a fear of death? Is it because it is such an unknown? We see Jesus who, “…shared in humanity so that by His death HE MIGHT BREAK THE POWER OF HIM WHO HOLDS THE POWER OF DEATH—THAT IS, THE DEVIL…” (Heb. 2:14) Not only did Jesus shed His blood to provide salvation for us but, His death, SET US FREE FROM THE FEAR OF DEATH. So, we may with Paul say, “For to me, to live is Christ and TO DIE IS GAIN…what shall I choose…I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far…” (Phil. 1:21-24) Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled…I GO TO 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 14:1-3)
WHAT A WONDROUS PLACE HEAVEN WILL BE…
-Bill Stockham