You Get to Choose

“And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.‘“ Matthew 25:46 NKJV

In a heartbreaking story titled “Alabama record-setting runner Eliud Kipsang dies at 28” published earlier this week, it was reported that Eliud Kipsang, the 2021 SEC runner of the year while a runner at Alabama, died Tuesday. He was 28.The Eldoret, Kenya native broke the collegiate record for the men’s 1,500-meter race in 2022, which remains the Alabama record. It remains top five all time among collegiate runners, per UA. In total, Kipsang holds three Crimson Tide running records: the indoor mile, indoor distance medley relay and outdoor 1,500 meter. When talking about his passing, Alabama coach Dan Waters said “We are heartbroken by the passing of Eliud Kipsang, one of the most gifted athletes ever to wear crimson and white. His impact on our program extended far beyond records and championships; he was a beloved teammate, a brother to so many and a dear friend to me, personally. On behalf of the entire Alabama family, we extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. The running community has lost a remarkable soul.”

And, you know, while the running community lost a remarkable soul, death was not the end for Eliud. It’s not the end of anyone for that matter. You see, by the choice we make to either follow Jesus or reject Jesus while we live, we choose where our soul will reside after death. The righteous, or those who choose to accept Jesus as their Savior, will inherit “eternal life.” But those who reject Jesus (and to not choose to follow Him is to reject Him), “these will go away into everlasting punishment.” This puts to rest the notion that God sends people to hell since each and every person gets to choose whether they will spend eternity in heaven or in hell. 

So, knowing that life can be cut short for even the fittest of people, choose to follow Jesus today if you haven’t already my friend. Heaven is a real place and so is hell. And by your choice now, you get to determine where your soul will reside for eternity. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we choose our final destination and that you do not send people to hell. But rather people send themselves to hell by rejecting your Son. Help us to share this message Lord so that no one would perish and inherit eternal damnation on account that we did not warn them. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus amen. 

Happy Running!