Deuteronomy 30:19 “I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life!”
One day a successful female executive was knocked down by a bus and killed. She found herself at the Pearly Gates with St. Peter. He said to her: “Before we let you in to heaven, we’ll let you experience 24 hours in both heaven and hell, and then you can choose.” The woman said she knew already what she wanted, but he insisted. So she got into the lift and went down to hell. The door opened and she stepped out into a beautiful country club. Old friends and new ones rushed up and hugged her. She was the centre of the party, and absolutely loved it. The food, the dancing, the jokes – the whole experience surpassed her wildest dreams. Soon enough the day was over. She was blown away. Her 24 hours in heaven were delightful as well, but when she found herself back in front of St. Peter and needing to make her decision, she surprised herself by saying: “You know, heaven was wonderful, truly it was. But I have to say hell was simply out of this world. I never thought I’d hear myself saying this, but I think I’m going to choose hell.” “Are you sure?” asked St. Peter. Down she went in the lift for the second and last time. When it opened, there was no more country club. Her former friends were there, but this time in rags scavenging for food in the filth. She screamed and tried to get back into the lift, but it was shut. The Devil came up to her and put his arm around her. “I don’t understand,” she stammered. The Devil looked at her and smiled: “Yesterday we were recruiting you, today you’re staff…”
If you’re looking for sound theology, the above story’s somewhat lacking – but it makes a strong point. We’re all responsible for our choices. Things are not as they seem. Choose well today.
Lord, I choose life. Help me help others do the same. Amen!
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