A Preacher's Dying Wish

 

 

An old preacher was dying. He sent a message for his doctor and his lawyer,

both church members, to come to his home.

 

When they arrived, they were ushered up to his bedroom. As they entered the

room the preacher held out his hands and motioned for them to sit, one on

each side of his bed. The preacher grasped their hands, sighed contentedly,

smiled and stared at the ceiling. For a time, no one said anything.

 

Both the doctor and the lawyer were touched and flattered that the preacher

would ask them to be with him during his final moments. They were also

puzzled; the preacher had never given them any indication that he

particularly liked either of them. They both remembered his many long,

uncomfortable sermons about greed, covetousness and avaricious behavior that

made them squirm in their seats.

 

Finally, the doctor said, "Preacher, why did you ask us to come?"

The old preacher mustered up his strength, then said weakly,

 

"Jesus died between two thieves ... and that's how I want to

go."