Bernard was the husky native skipper of our 32-foot sailboat. He and two deck hands were the crew for a day of sailing on the lovely blue-green waters of the Caribbean. It was a beautiful day and the sun was hot. Wind filled the sails, making little slapping noises, whistled through the rigging, and raced on to fling little clouds about in the sky.
Suddenly Bernard addressed Don. "Do you believe in life after death?"
Now, Don loved to tell the gospel and speak to others of his wonderful Savior and of the great hope that lies beyond this life—of being with Christ in glory. He was somewhat startled by the directness of the question, nevertheless his answer was quick, "I certainly do!" he replied.
"Let me tell you a story," Bernard continued. "My friend and another man were out in their 14-foot boat doing some deep sea fishing. The other man leaned over the side to look down into the water. At that moment, a swordfish came up and the sword struck him directly in the eye. The man fell backward crying, 'It's dark—it's so dark,' and right there he died. Now, what do you think of that?"
We were all silent for a moment, thinking of this most solemn account. Then Don replied, "He met his appointment. God's Word says, 'It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.' Are you ready to meet your appointment?"
No one spoke as we sailed on but God was looking down and waiting—yes, longing—to receive another sinner into His great family. Finally Don spoke again, "Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." 2 Cor. 6:22(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) (2 Corinthians 6:2).
The water slapped noisily at the sides of the boat as it hurried on by, rolling off the stern and leaving a white foamy trail behind us. At last Bernard answered, "No," he said, "I'm sure not ready for an appointment like that!"
Bernard was not ready for an appointment with death. The man who was struck by the swordfish may or may not have been ready, but what about you? Are you ready to keep that last appointment? Keep it you must! Why not prepare now for it and turn now to Christ, the only Savior of sinners.