What’s It Like To Be Near Death?

What would it be like to be near your death? What would you talk about? What would you think? What would you do with the time?

Imagine, you know it’s time to leave this world and step into eternity. The countdown isn't vague anymore. It's not theoretical. It's real. What would that feel like?

Jesus knew.

The Apostle John wrote:

“It was almost time for the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that it was time for him to leave this world and go back to the Father. He had always loved those who were his own in the world, and he loved them all the way to the end.”

(John‬ ‭13‬:‭1‬ ‭NCV‬)

Christ knew Judas would betray him. He knew the Apostles would run and scatter. He knew Peter would deny even knowing him.

He had no wife, no children. His closest friends would watch from a distance while he was arrested, beaten, and crucified. A pretty lonely way to die.

He could see it all coming. He thought about it. He sat with it. And he faced it.

Just imagine… what if it was you?

But here’s the thing: Jesus wasn’t just anticipating death - He was looking through it. He saw beyond the suffering. He knew what was on the other side.

The cross wasn’t the end—it was the door.

And that’s what gives hope to anyone nearing the end of this life. We aren’t walking into darkness. We’re walking toward the light.

The Apostle Paul once said:

“We would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8 NLT)

And again, Paul wrote with joy:

“I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far.” (Philippians 1:23 NIV)

That’s what death is for the believer—not a dreadful ending, but a homecoming. A joyful release. A finish line that leads to the beginning of forever.

So if you or someone you love is approaching that moment - lift your eyes. Look beyond the pain, beyond the fear, beyond the unknown. Heaven is not far. Eternity is not vague. Jesus is not absent. And your story is not over.

You’re going home.

GOD, I just keep thinking about my friends that probably can see their end. There family can see it too. I pray you give us all a new vision. The vision of turning the page from this life to a life with you. It’s true. “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Phillipians 1:21 NIV) Help us know it, trust it, believe it and lean into it. IJNIP amen ♥️