Bible Question: Is the possibility for animals having an afterlife Biblically based? |
Bible Answer: The only writer who addresses the question directly is Ecclesiastes in 3:19-21, who states," For the fate of humans and the fate of animals is the same; as one dies, so does the other. They all have the same breath, and humans have no advantage over the animals, for all is vanity. All go to one place; all are from the dust and all turn to dust again. Who knows whether the human spirit goes upward and the spirit of animals goes downward to the earth?" In 1860 Florence Nightinggale wrote that a small pet "is often an excellent companion for the sick." The psychological benefits of caring for an animal can also be enourmous. Pet's offer us a nonjudgemental, accepting and unconditional love that can be very healing. Animals can teach us about love. Animals can without words open to us new dimensions of life that are wonderfully transforming. Animals and children are much alike - they both have an innocence and a lack of pretense that seem to radiate goodness. I leave you with this thought - If it's true that "those who abide in love, abide in God," then animals can bring our spirits into closer communion with our maker bwecause they truly know how to love unconditionally. And if this is the case do we believe God would not of made some provision for them in heaven as a reward for doing His work so fulfillingly? prayon |