Death is an appointment we all have; there is no choice. But there is a choice about where we will spend eternity. Even under the best of circumstances, death is not easy to accept, especially for those we love so much. The death of a parent, a sibling, or a child affects the deepest part of us. And yet, when that person is a Christian, we have the comfort of knowing they have left behind all earthly pain.

There have been times when I stood by the grave of a godly person and almost felt jealous. In fact, I was. It was not because I wanted to die, but because I knew where they were and what they were enjoying. The moment I was born, I started to die. As a Christian, the moment I die is when I really begin to live.

Death is not frightening, but dying is because we don’t know how we will die. Some suffer before they leave this world. That is not a pleasant thought. On the other hand, some just peacefully go to sleep. Maybe that’s what the poet had in mind when he said, “I’m half in love with easeful death.” Perhaps I misjudged him all those years ago.

As Solomon wisely said in Ecclesiastes 12:13, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” Loving God, keeping His commandments, and living a holy and godly life not only makes life worthwhile now, but it also brings the promise of a home in heaven when this life on earth is over. It’s important to understand that death is not the end of life; it is merely a transition to eternity. I’m reminded of an old song that I haven’t heard in years:

“Tis a sweet and glorious thought that comes to me:

I’ll live on, yes, I’ll live on.

Jesus saved my soul from death and now I’m free:

I’ll live on, yes, I’ll live on.”

There are two inescapable appointments we all have. Death is the first; judgment is the second. I will stand before God at either The Judgment Seat of Christ or The Great White Throne Judgment. The former will hear Christ say, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joys of the Lord,” while the latter will hear God say; “Depart from Me, I never knew you.” I plead with you, don’t delay; be ready for that day. Accept Jesus as your Savior. A glorious eternity awaits those who do.