The End and the Beginning

“Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” Hebrews 9:27-28

Most of us have been to a cemetery for a time of committal at a graveside. Throughout the cemetery there are gravestones that indicate a name of the deceased with a date of birth and a date of death. It almost seems surreal when you realize that this person was on the earth for a period of time and is no longer here. For some reason, we do not think that we will experience the same fate. Yet, deep down we know different.

The Holy Spirit reminds us from these words in Hebrews that every person is destined to die. The awareness of this serves to teach us important lessons. Death teaches us how to live. The reality of our mortality is a reminder that every day is a gift and therefore, we should make the most of it.

Contrary to belief of some, physical death is not the end. Judgment follows death. For the unbeliever, it will consist of the Great White Throne judgment and a sentence of an eternity in Hell. For the believer, it will be giving account of work done for Jesus at the Judgment Seat of Christ.

The realization of death and judgment brings me to this principle to live by. Begin with the end in mind. This first involves considering what will be most important at the end of your life. From a biblical perspective, that which pertains to eternity should stand out. Having peace with God through a personal relationship with Jesus is most important. After that, other relationships that are important to you should be included. Finally, remember it is your investments of time, talents, and money in God’s kingdom that will last and be rewarded in eternity.

After identifying your end-in-mind priorities, BEGIN living today with ongoing awareness of the END in your mind. What do you need to do daily to make sure you have a growing personal relationship with Jesus? What do you need to change in your life in order to give a higher priority to your key relationships? In what ways are you investing in God’s kingdom work? A proper perspective of the end helps you begin a fulfilling way to live!