At the graveside of His friend Lazarus, Jesus told his grieving sisters Mary and Martha two all-important things:

(1) ‘Your brother will rise again.’ (John 11:23 NASB)

(2) ‘Everyone who lives in Me and believes in Me will never ever die. Do you believe this?’ (John 11:26 NLT) So, what’s going to take you beyond death and into your heavenly home? Sterling character? Charitable giving? Going to church? No. While those are all commendable, only by placing your trust in Christ can you have the assurance of resurrection and eternal life.

You see, Jesus conquered death and the grave for you. You may be reading these words today fighting tears of sorrow. Perhaps you have lost your spouse of many years, or your child to a tragic accident, or a loved one to some dreaded disease. Like no other, Jesus understands your grief. He is touched with the feelings of our infirmities (see Hebrews 4:15).

Or perhaps you sense that death is near to you. If you haven’t placed your trust in Christ, you must take care of that right away. Don’t wait for a more convenient time. Do it today, and you will be saved; that means that when you breathe your last breath, you will pass from death to life—heavenly life. When you trust in Christ (click here), there is no reason to fear what lies beyond the grave. He is already there. And He has prepared a place for you. It’s ready! Inexplicable, unending joy will be yours forever, thanks to Jesus. You can exclaim with Paul, ‘Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?’ (1 Corinthians 15:55 NIV)

Think about it: immediately following death—glory!