Have you ever peeked at the end of a mystery novel to see how it all turns out? There’s a certain thrill in knowing the conclusion before you’ve even finished the journey. When it comes to the greatest story ever told – the story of humanity and our relationship with God – we have the incredible privilege of knowing how it all ends.
All of history is really “His Story,” the unfolding story of God throughout time. And History isn’t really a mystery at all. It’s a carefully crafted narrative, planned and executed by God from the beginning of time to its ultimate conclusion. And while we may not know every detail, we have been given a glimpse into the final chapters.
One of the most profound truths we must grapple with is the reality of death. As Solomon wisely noted in Ecclesiastes 3:2, there is “a time to be born and a time to die.” It’s a sobering thought that every second, two people somewhere in the world take their final breath. We often shy away from discussing death, using euphemisms to soften its impact. But the truth is, we cannot truly live until we are ready to face the reality of our mortality.
The Apostle Paul captured this paradox beautifully in Philippians 1:21: “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” This perspective doesn’t diminish the value of our earthly lives but rather infuses them with eternal purpose. When we understand the finality of death and the eternity that follows, it radically alters how we approach each day we’re given.
Death entered our world as a consequence of sin. Romans 5:12 tells us, “When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned.” This spiritual pandemic has infected all of humanity, leading to both physical and spiritual death – separation from God.
But here’s where the story takes an unexpected turn. God, in His infinite love and mercy, provided a solution. Romans 6:23 encapsulates this divine paradox: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Through Jesus’ sacrifice, death has been defeated for those who put their faith in Him.
This brings us to the two possible destinations for eternity: Heaven and Hell. Heaven is described in ways that defy our imagination. 1 Corinthians 2:9 tells us, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.” It’s a place of unimaginable joy, beauty, and fulfillment in God’s presence.
Hell, on the other hand, is a stark reality that many prefer to ignore. Jesus himself spoke of it as a place of “outer darkness” and “weeping and gnashing of teeth.” It’s not a place of rowdy parties with friends, but of isolation, regret, and separation from all that is good.
The choice between these two destinies hinges on one crucial decision: our response to Jesus Christ. As Hebrews 9:27-28 reminds us, “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.”
This brings us to another key element of how the story ends: the return of Jesus Christ. While we don’t know the exact timing, Jesus gave us some clues about His second coming. It will be sudden, “like lightning that flashes from the east to the west” (Matthew 24:27). It will be unexpected, catching many off guard. And it will be visible and personal – Jesus himself will return, not a representative or a spiritual concept.
So, how should we live in light of these truths? Jesus tells a parable in Matthew 24 about faithful servants who continue their work diligently, not knowing when their master will return. This is our calling – to work and witness, sharing the good news of God’s kingdom with urgency and purpose.
Matthew 24:14 gives us a glimpse into God’s heart for the world: “And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come.” God’s desire is for everyone to have the opportunity to know Him and receive His salvation.
Some may wonder why Jesus hasn’t returned yet if this has been the plan all along. 2 Peter 3:9 provides a beautiful insight into God’s patience: “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” Every day that passes is an opportunity for someone else to turn to God and be saved.
As we contemplate these weighty truths about eternity, judgment, and Christ’s return, it’s natural to feel a mix of emotions – awe, fear, excitement, and perhaps even uncertainty. But for those who have put their trust in Jesus, we can face the future with confidence and hope.
The book of Revelation, while often seen as mysterious and symbolic, ultimately tells a story of victory. God’s people will be set free, evil will be defeated, and a new heaven and new earth will be established where God dwells with His people forever.
So, as we navigate the twists and turns of our individual stories, let’s keep our eyes fixed on the author and perfecter of our faith. Let’s live each day with purpose, sharing the hope we have with others, and eagerly anticipating the day when we’ll see our Savior face to face.
The greatest mystery of history has been solved. We know how the story ends – and it’s more glorious than we could ever imagine. The question is, will you be part of this victorious conclusion? The invitation is open to all who would receive it. Don’t wait until the final page to make your decision. Your eternity hangs in the balance, and the time to choose is now.