“What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?...” Matthew 16:26 NIV


I recently heard a sermon (New Birth MBC, Bishop Long, 7/09) which reminded us that we are all going to die someday. It is funny how we must be reminded of this fundamental fact. Most Ministers shy away from hell and brimstone sermons, not wanting to offend their parishioners. But, some people live as if they were going to live forever; some people act as if they can take all of their material possessions with them when they go; and some people do not know that without a doubt, they have a choice of heaven or hell.


This subject is especially relevant in light of several deaths, just in the last month, of prominent celebrities. These celebrities include actors, entertainers, and sport figures, such as John Carradine, Farrah Fawcett, and Michael Jackson. These individuals seemed to have it all - money, fame, and beauty. After their deaths the media sensationalized their lives and the manner of their death. This was especially true of Michael Jackson.


I don’t want to judge these individuals, that’s not my place, but I do want to remind all of us, the living, that you can’t take it with you, but you have a choice now while you are living. Do not sacrifice your soul for the fleeting, material riches of this world.