ON CHRISTIANITY

Friday, December 20, 2013

DEAR REV. GRAHAM: I don’t mean to be irreverent, but heaven sounds kind of boring to me, and I’m not sure I even want to go there when I die. And anyway, I suspect most of my friends will be in the other place and having a good time, just like they do now.

DEAR S.H.: I’m sorry if you’ve gotten the impression that heaven will be boring, because the opposite is the case! Heaven instead will be far more fascinating than anything we’ll ever experience on this earth.

For one thing, God will have work for us to do. Unlike our work on earth, however, it will never be monotonous or dull, nor will we grow tired or weary. The Bible doesn’t tell us exactly what will be involved, but whatever it is, we’ll take delight in it and find it completely fulfilling. The Bible says, “No longer will there be any curse … and his servants will serve him” (Revelation 22:3).

In addition, we’ll have all eternity to explore the riches of God’s creation, including the unimaginable glory of heaven. We also will be reunited with all those who’ve gone to heaven before us, and we’ll understand, as well, all the things we find confusing right now. As the Apostle Paul said, “Now I know in part; then I shall know fully” (1 Corinthians 13:12).

Don’t be deceived into thinking hell will be a place of fun and excitement; nothing could be farther from the truth. Not one word in the Bible about hell would ever make you want to go there. Instead, put your life into Christ’s hands, and make Him the foundation of your life - and your hope for eternity. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him” (Romans 15:13).

Write to Billy Graham in care of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C. 28201 or visit the website at billygraham.org

MovieStyle, Pages 37 on 12/20/2013