There is a Place Prepared for Us

“My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” John 14:2-3 NIV

In an article posted by Runners World last week, it was reported that 26-year-old runner Sam Norton was competing in the Santa Rosa Marathon On Sunday, August 27, when he collapsed just before reaching the 23rd mile. Medical staff arrived at the Santa Rosa Creek Trail to offer medical assistance to Norton and performed CPR as runners continued to move past them. Norton was then taken to a hospital and later pronounced dead. The day after Sam’s unexpected and sudden death, his mother, Kristen Caisse, told The Santa Press Democrat, “He was doing something that he loved… He just was such a blessing to all who knew him.” 

And you know, as much as this story pained my heart to read, I couldn’t help but think that Sam and Kristen must be believers because of the peace she displayed upon her son’s untimely passing. Peace that every believer should have since Jesus clearly tells us that life doesn’t end when we die. He has prepared a place for all those who have trusted in Him and promised that He is coming back to take them there. Do you just love that or what? That means we not only have the confidence that we will spend eternal life with Jesus but that our loved ones who have passed before us will too. 

So if you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, rejoice my friend. You will spend eternity with Him. But if you haven’t, don’t put the decision off for even one more second. As this story clearly shows, no one is guaranteed tomorrow. And those who die without accepting Jesus will not go to be where He is. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word that gives us peace about what happens when we breathe our last breath here. To know that we will be with You forever in a place that Jesus has prepared allows us to live unafraid of dying. Spur us to boldly share this Good News with the world. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!