I remember as a young boy, waiting for school to let out for the summer. Just one more month, then one more week, then one more day. Hooray! The day is finally here. I had the same feeling in high school waiting for graduation day. But, in that experience, there existed an emotion of uncertainty. What would be next? Where would I go? What would I do?
Consider, if you will, what will you do for the next three years? Do you have a plan? Do you have a goal? Why select three years? Good question. Well, let’s review briefly what Jesus Christ did during his three-year earthly ministry.
Jesus started His earthly ministry at age thirty. His earthly ministry ended at age thirty-three. During that time, He proclaimed the Kingdom of God. That proclamation included many sermons, lessons, miracles and discipleships. From the beginning He knew one last day on earth would come. Knowing that, what did He do?
Fast forward now to today. Two people are talking. The first person states; “If I had only one day left to live, I would quit my job, take all my money, buy some fancy clothes to wear, eat at the most expensive restaurant, and drive a red convertible sports car through the most beautiful country side.” The second person states; I would continue doing what I am doing now, because I am happy and satisfied. I have been blessed and had a good life.”
Jesus had one week left to live on earth. He continued preaching and healing. He had two days left to live on earth. He ate a last meal with friends. He washed the feet of those friends, an act usually done by a servant.
Jesus had one day left to live on earth. He prayed. Later He was betrayed by a disciple. Jesus proclaimed the Kingdom of God. He knew what was going to happen to Him. He was arrested and beaten. He still proclaimed the Kingdom of God. Jesus had one hour left to live on earth. He continued to proclaim the Kingdom of God. He forgave those who nailed Him to the cross.
Jesus stated, while hanging on the cross, “It is finished.” His earthly life was over. On His last day to live, He continued doing that which He had always done. Was He happy? Probably not in the way you and I define happiness. Was He successful? Very much so. How do we know of His success? By His resurrection and faith in Him. He continues to proclaim the Kingdom of God.
Folks, you and I do not know when our last day on earth will be. Would you want to know? I would not. If you did know, would you party the entire day? Would you sit and worry about family all day? Or, would you continue your life as is, because you are happy and have lived a good life? If you are not sure…. Try proclaiming the Kingdom of God. Just might be a great way to spend your last day.
Walter Allen is a graduate of TCHS and Auburn University. He is retired from the paper industry and is a published author. A former president of the Laurens County Museum Assoc. in Laurens, SC. He lives in Tuscaloosa County, AL.
