Today marks the first year anniversary of my mother’s death. I miss her, but know she is with her Lord.

When someone dies, Christians think about eternity. Our earthly contributions are important and praised, but it is our belief in Christ that ultimately matters. Our focus goes beyond the present.

Augustine once said, “They, then, who are destined to die, need not be careful to inquire what death they are to die, but into what place death will usher them.”

Do we think about our eternal destination? We should. We can be certain of where we will spend eternity. The Bible is clear about what it takes to be with God for eternity.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Acts 2:21)

“I am the way, and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)

Once we believe and accept Christ as our Savior, our eternal destination is Heaven. So when a Christian dies, it is sad and the normal emotions of loss surface. But there is an assurance that death is not the final separation. One day, a great reunion will take place. One moment we are here on Earth, the next in God’s presence. There is peace in knowing into what place death will usher us.

The sadness of loss is real, but the hope of eternity remains in our hearts. From our last breath on Earth to our first in God’s presence, a Christian’s destination is to be with God forever. And that is truly why someone can rest in peace.