“When the commonplace ‘We must all die’ transforms itself suddenly into the acute consciousness ‘I must die–and soon,’ then death grapples us, and his fingers are cruel; afterwards, he may come to fold us in his arms as our mother did, and our last moments of dim earthly discerning may be like the first.”

Incidentally, I just read a fascinating book, “The History of Hell” by Alice K. Turner. It describes the changing scholarly, religious, and popular views of hell throughout the ages…who influenced whom, etc. For instance, I learned that Shakespeare wrote secular plays rather than religious ones not necessarily due to his own artistic preferences, but because religious plays–and portrayals of hell in particular–were banned just as he began to write! I think you’d enjoy this book, and would probably find fodder for a few more posts.

But, why would Howard Storm qualify for a vision like this – if it really wasn’t a true after/near death experience, that is? The general populace would get no such clear proof of the graveness of their bad choices, and the perfect chance to see the light. Jesus said he is no respecter of persons, so it wouldn’t make any sense to suggest there was something Rev. Storm did to merit it. From there, I can’t pretend I can even assume an answer. But I do believe Jesus’ infinite love for us leaves no stone unturned, and those who wind up away from God actually do choose that.

Howard Storm’s transformation is remarkable, I read his book in one evening- I simply couldn’t put it down. Whether it was a vision or an NDE, I’m very glad Howard asked and Jesus saved. Praise God.

Thought-provoking. Thanks.

That’s great!

In my e-book on comparative mysticism is a quote by Albert Einstein: “…most beautiful and profound emotion we can experience is the sensation of the mystical. It is the sower of all true science. To know that what is impenetrable to us really exists, manifesting itself as the highest wisdom and most radiant beauty – which our dull faculties can comprehend only in their primitive form – this knowledge, this feeling, is at the center of all religion.”

Jim