Acts 7:59
“And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.’”
Frequently I relate the final words of my grandfather as he was ushered into his eternal reward: “Well, there’s Jesus now!” What a way to go! Those words that were related to me by my father have been a constant reminder that each of us is just a heartbeat away from eternity.
Stephen was a righteous man who was faithful to the proclamation of Jesus as the promised Messiah. When confronted with false accusations and an angry mob, he stayed the course and used it as an opportunity to share the wonderful gospel of salvation by grace through saving faith, even unto his death.
We may or may not be called upon to sacrifice our life for the sake of the gospel, but it is very likely that we will be presented with the opportunity to share our testimony in front of those who may be mocking, insulting, or even hostile.
If the time ever comes that we are called upon to sacrifice our life for our faith, I hope we will be like Stephen or Grandpa Thompson. Wouldn’t it be great to have our last view on this earth be the face of our Savior? That would truly be THE WAY TO GO!
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today and be a blessing!
– – – Pastor Cecil