Although many people don't want to talk or think about it, it is a fact that "we shall all have to appear before the judgment seat of God" (Rm 14:10). After dying (Heb 9:27) and at the end of the world (Mt 25:31), each person will be "judged according to his conduct" (Rv 20:13). The Lord "will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and manifest the intentions of hearts" (1 Cor 4:5). Those who have lost their lives (Lk 9:24) by totally giving them to Jesus will be saved. Those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior, Lord, and God will be saved (Acts 16:30-31). Those baptized and living their Baptisms in love (Mk 16:16) will be saved, enter into eternal life, and see Jesus face to face (1 Jn 3:2).

Those who have turned away from God by serious mortal sin will be judged worthy of eternal punishment (see Mt 25:46). They will be judged as having decided to be "apart from the presence of the Lord and the glory of His might" (2 Thes 1:9). They will be thrown out into the night to wail and grind their teeth (Mt 22:13). "Their lot is the fiery pool of burning sulphur, the second death!" (Rv 21:8)

Do not be so foolish as to forget about Judgment Day. But do not worry about it. Now give your life totally to Jesus, the Judge (Jn 5:22), Who is Love (1 Jn 4:16).

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 27, 2018

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.