One of the great battles of the war was over, and the stretcher-bearers were busy at their work. A party of them came upon a badly wounded soldier, and they could see that he was dying.
As they carefully lifted him onto the stretcher they recognized him. He was well known in his regiment for his outspoken criticism of anything religious. And now he was on the brink of eternity!
What a surprise it was to the medics when he opened his eyes and whispered faintly: "Which is the way to God?"
One of the bearers was an earnest Christian. He bent over the wounded man and said: "Jesus Christ is the way to God."
"Can I find Him?" murmured the dying soldier.
"He is not far to seek; He is always near you. Jesus has been seeking you for many days. Just say to Him: 'Lord Jesus, forgive my sins and take me to God.' He will surely do it."
The dying man stiffly folded his hands together. His lips were seen too move, and those now bending over him could faintly hear the words: "Lord Jesus, forgive me, and take me to God."
A hush fell upon the little company. They stood silently watching while the soldier, exhausted, lay with closed eyes awaiting the end.
Suddenly he opened his eyes, half raised himself up, and said in a loud, clear voice: "Thank You, Lord Jesus," and fell back.
He was absent from the body—present with the Lord.