Since the Philippines is prone to typhoons, we usually make preparations on what to do in order to minimize its effects. Those who do not heed the warnings would usually suffer the brunt of the natural disaster.
If we prepare ourselves on typhoons, which are about 20 in average a year, then we must even be more prepared to face eternity. Compared to the average lifespan of 72.6 years old as of 2019, eternity is of course longer because it is forever. It is a no-brainer then to be prepared.
How then can we prepare ourselves for eternity?
First, we must personally accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.
John 3:16 reminds us that the eternity with Jesus Christ has already started the moment that you have accepted Him in your life. Your friend or your parents or anybody cannot accept Jesus for you. It must be personal.
Second, the decision to accept Jesus in our lives can only be made while we are living in this world.
The Bible is very clear that after we die, we will either go to heaven or hell. There is no in between. Moreover, no amount of prayer that we will pray can transfer somebody from one place to heaven. The story of Jesus about the Rich Man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31 tells us about this truth.
Third, our faith in Jesus Christ must produce works of righteousness.
Paul wrote in Philippians 2 that Christians must work out their salvation. This means that we must exercise our faith. James 2 explicitly tells us that our faith must be shown through acts of goodness and righteousness. If not, then that faith is not genuine; it is dead.
So, let us be prepared with natural calamities that may come, but let us be more prepared for eternity.
May God bless us all!
Sincerely,
Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
Director, Office of Communications
Central Philippine University