Eternity in Mind

 

While working in the hospital, I had many memorable encounters that forever changed my perspective on life.  But most memorable perhaps was an older gentleman I met sometime within my first year there.   

 

Though he was terminally ill, he wanted everything done.  We saw him almost daily for rehab therapy.  During our therapy sessions we had the opportunity to chat, and he began to share about his past, his achievements, and status.   

 

Sadly, every day his condition declined.  Our chats slowly gravitated from memories of the past to his present condition.  As tears filled his eyes, he began to confess he wasn’t prepared for this.  I asked of his beliefs, his thoughts on eternity, his belief in God, to which he only answered, “I really don’t know anymore”, “You sound convinced, but how can I be sure?”.   

 

I remember thinking what a sad way to face eternity, unsure, full of doubt and fear.   

 

Statistically, annual studies consistently report fear of death amongst the top three most reported anxieties.  

 

But God has not intended for it to be that way.  While we are alive, we have the opportunity to become sure of his existence. Experience him, seek him out and find him.  

Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.

His intent has always been for us to live in assurance and confidence.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (Jer. 29:11 KJV) 

 

Another translation says  

 

...to give you hope in your latter end. (Jer. 29:11 ERV) 

 

Webster’s definition of expected: is to look forward too, anticipated, hoped for, desired. 
 

God intents for us to have an end  we look forward to. Full of confidence that he is.  

 

There is a story in the OT of a Prophet by the name of Balaam. God shows him the plans he has for his people, Israel. They are a people that are set apart from the rest of the world. God gives the prophet a glimpse into their future. Notice, how he marvels at this one thing... 

 

Let me die the death of the righteous, And let my last end be like his! 

 

Balaam says I want to face eternity the way this group of people does.