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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: My best friend and only brother struggled with a debilitating disease. Toward the end of life, he grew impatient for death to come and bring relief. I miss him and find it hard to go on living, wishing death would replace my loneliness. While he lived, he encouraged me to live life to the fullest. I’m not sure I will ever have that same outlook. Does this make me a weak Christian? – B.A.

A: Jesus knows everything and He understands loneliness. A young boy was traveling unaccompanied on a long and bumpy flight. Someone sitting beside him asked, “Are you tired of the long trip?” The boy smiled and said, “I’m a little tired, but I don’t mind it much because my father is going to meet me when I get there.” Just like that boy who looked forward to seeing his father at the airport at the end of his journey, those who belong to Christ look forward to seeing the Heavenly Father at the end of life’s earthly journey.

Jesus made a promise to all those who believe in Him and obey Him. He said, “I go and prepare a place for you, [and] I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also” (John 14:3, NKJV). So when Christians go on a journey to meet Jesus, He’s waiting there. Until then, we are to live for Him here on Earth and share with others the hope we have in Christ Jesus.

For those living, there may be years of life ahead with many things to look forward to. The Bible says, “Show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11, NKJV).

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

©2023 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

(c)2023 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.