The old canard is “nothing is certain but death and taxes.” The humorous part of that is supposed to be the play on “taxes.” But the fact is that the one certain thing in life is that you and I will die.

That surely sounds morbid to many people. Someone will ask, “Why do you want to say a terrible thing like that?” Everyone already knows this. Not many want to be reminded of it because they do not want to think about it.

There are good reasons for saying this jolting truth. And it is the truth.

We need to be reminded so we can be prepared for that eventful day. The Bible clearly tells us that after death there is accountability for our lives. The writer to Hebrews called it “judgment.” He wrote in the Scriptures “people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” God will preside over a judgment that will follow our life on earth.

This is not bad news. It is a glorious statement of God’s love. It is not God’s desire to punish us! He loves us and wants to reward us!

The reminder that we will meet our God after this life on earth is over should fill us with exciting expectation.

Occasionally I look at the obituary page in the paper. I often notice that there are people of all ages listed. It tells me that any one of us can die at any time. At any age in life we can be just a step away from death.

The message is: “Be ready always.” Knowing that death is certain is no cause for fear. Rather it is an opportunity to prove the great truth of God’s word.

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do

with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18) Death and judgment are not about punishment. It is about victory!!

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Write the Pastor at PastorBill@firstagcc.org