A story by Y.L. Peretz entitled, "Beside the Dying," tells about a man who is lying on his deathbed. He is visited by an angel who is to carry him to heaven as soon as his last breath expires. Sensing the angel's presence, the fever-stricken man asks, "And what is life like up there in heaven, in paradise? What shall I be doing there?" The angel answers, "You won't have to do anything. There is eternal rest there, everlasting joy, and enduring happiness." Concerned, the man turns toward the angel. "Is anyone there whom I can help? Can I raise up the dejected, heal the sick, feed the hungry, or give water to parched lips?" "No," the angel replies, "no one will need your help there." Distraught, the man says, "Where there is no one who needs my soul, my heart, my tear of pity, my word of comfort, or my hand to lift them up, there is nothing for me to do." And he refuses to go with the angel. Instead he asks if he could be reassigned.

Now obviously this parable is not meant to be a commentary on heaven. But it gives an example of a soul that is determined to serve others. A person who is with Christ will be a better neighbor, a better spouse, a better parent, and a better member of the community.

Ron Newhouse