The Race of Life (Part 2)

Bible Reading: Philippians 1:20-21; 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Panting, Asher crossed the finish line in the big race at school. “Good job!” exclaimed Grandpa, who had come to watch. “Second place—that’s great!”

Asher grinned. “I wanted to take first,” he said breathlessly, “but I knew George would probably beat me. Second’s okay too.”

Several weeks later, when Asher got home from school, his mom told him Grandpa had been taken to the hospital. “We’ll go see him after dinner,” Mom said, “but you need to know that he’s very, very ill.”

Mom was right. Grandpa was very weak, and as the days passed, he didn’t seem to improve. Asher knew his parents were concerned about it.

Asher was solemn as he entered his grandfather’s hospital room one afternoon. “Hi, Asher,” Grandpa said weakly. “Good to see you!”

“I’m glad to see you too.” Asher gave Grandpa a shaky smile. “I miss you, Gramps! I wish you could come home.”

“I miss you too,” said Grandpa. He took Asher’s hand. “I think I’ll be going home soon, Asher,” Grandpa added softly. “Home to be with Jesus. I’m eager to see Him.”

Asher gasped. “Grandpa! You don’t mean you’re gonna die, do you?”

“That sounds awful to you, doesn’t it? But remember that I’ll be with Jesus.”

“But…but…” Asher stuttered.

Grandpa smiled. “Asher, how did you feel when you were almost to the finish line in your race a couple months ago? Not there, but almost there.”

Asher couldn’t help grinning as he remembered the race. “Pretty bad. My legs were sore, my chest hurt, I was hot and sweaty, and I wanted a drink.” Then as he thought about it, he added, “But in a way, I felt great. I knew the race was almost over, and I knew I’d done my best.”

“That’s exactly how I feel,” said Grandpa gently. “Jesus saved me and helped me run a good life race for Him. Now my body is tired and sore, but I’m happy because I can see the finish line up ahead. I look forward to finally seeing Him and all the wonderful things He has prepared for me. Don’t feel bad for me, Asher. It’s almost time for me to get my prize!”

“Okay,” Asher whispered tearfully. “I know it’s going to be a really good one!”

-Sherry L. Kuyt

How About You?

Do you ever think about growing old and dying? Or perhaps you’re concerned you might die at a young age. If you know Jesus as your Savior, you don’t need to be afraid. Death for a Christian means crossing the finish line and seeing Jesus waiting for you with open arms. So trust Him to help you run a good race for Him, and look forward to the day when you see Him face-to-face.

Today’s Key Verse:
Philippians 1:21 To me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

For Christians, death means seeing Jesus