Luke 16:22-23, "And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom."  

In the context of today's verses (Luke 16:19-31) we see two men whose lives were very different.  One was rich with the best life had to offer in the material realm, the other was a beggar facing daily trials and adversity, poor health, looking for something to eat, etc.  Both men died and the contrast continues, actually it becomes an even greater contrast, for the rich man finds himself in hell because he died without experiencing God's redemption.  The beggar also died and was carried by the angels and was positioned by the side of Abraham, this man had experienced God's redemption in His life.  

To die without Christ is to be consigned to the eternal fires of hell no matter what one's status may be upon earth.  To die with Christ is to enjoy the eternal bliss of heaven even though life on earth had been filled with trials and difficulties.     

Hebrews 9:27 warns, "...it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment."  Revelation 20:14-15 states, "...death and hell were cast into the lake of fire.  This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire."  

There is no doubt that every person lives in contrast to someone else.  Because every person, although their story may be different, will eventually find their self either in heaven or in hell.  May we lead others to Christ so they don't have to go to that place of eternal torment.  

Place some gospel tracts in your purse or your pocket and tell someone about Jesus' love and redemption.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1. Have you experienced God’s redemptive work in your life? How can you know that when you die you will go to heaven?

2. How are the saved judged after their death? How are the lost judged after their death?

3. Are you consistently witnessing to others who need the Savior? How might you improve upon your witness?