The End of Life Test

"The most important things in life aren't things."
Anthony J. D'angelo




Without goals and the setting of priorities life seems to meander along and we are carried by the winds and their ever changing direction and strength.  The end of life comes all to swiftly and we find ourselves looking back and wondering what we have accomplished or what is most important. Along the way most of us have some accomplishments to tout.  Perhaps it is a job that went well or an income that exceeded that of our neighbours or a position of influence and power gives us self-worth.  For those who are worldly in their focus the litmus test of a life well lived is very simple.  "He who has the most toys wins."

I have been present at the death bed of many people over the years of my ministry.  In not one of those rooms have I found the toys we so easily collect to signify our material success.  In not one have I found the plaques that proclaim our accomplishments.  In almost all I have found spouses, children and good friends.  In many I have found Bibles that denote a quiet and confident faith in the future.

What things will be most important to you at the end of your life?

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.  But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."  (Matthew 6:19-21)