Preparing for Eternity 

   “Eternity, it really is not something at the end; it is that which influences every moment of the now.” (Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, “The Wisdom of Fulton Sheen”) 

   People often spend years and a lot of money preparing for their future career in this life.  Many years of study and hard work are often required.

   Whatever the career choice, it takes determination to achieve success.  Anyone who is unwilling to devote the needed time and effort will never rise to their full potential.  The world is full of those who never reach their goal because they are unwilling to make the necessary sacrifices and do the hard work required to achieve it.

   Preparing for eternal life is no different; it takes time, hard work, and sacrifice to get to heaven.  There will be struggles along the way; crosses to bear.  As hard as we try we will at times fail in our efforts.  But our failure is an opportunity to get back up and try again.   Those who give up, becoming complacent and lukewarm will find themselves standing outside the heavenly gates with no way to enter.

   All the money, fame and glory that may be gained from our earthly careers and successes will disappear in an instant at our death.  And yet, if we have prepared ourselves, death is simply the door to the eternal paradise God has prepared for those who love Him.