A newspaper headline announced the death of a Canadian Customs Inspector. It read: “Death writes finis to... the parting of the ways!”
The Inspector was killed by a truck trailer at the end of the Ambassador Bridge as he was about to retire after 25 years’ service.
In his pocket was found a farewell speech he had planned to read at a party to be held for him at 5 o’clock p.m. that same day. His speech read: “And now at this parting of the ways, I thank you and wish you long life, health and happiness.”
His wish may have come true for some of his friends to whom his farewell speech was addressed, but for the Inspector himself all was over. He had suddenly left this world where he had hoped to enjoy life for a while longer. Whether his spirit is at home with the Lord or whether he waits the dreaded judgment day, we cannot say. This tragedy and a thousand others that happen every day in this world, should bring home to our consciences the solemn truth that life is so uncertain and that eternity is but a step away. King David said, “There is but a step between me and death.”
O, dear friends, be ready! If you are not saved, do not put off salvation’s day any longer.
Tomorrow’s sun may never rise
To bless thy long-deluded sight;
This is the time, Oh, then, be wise;
Thou wouldst be saved, why not tonight?
ML-11/07/1976