There was once an elderly preacher who lay on his deathbed. As his life drew to a close, he had a special request. He wanted two particular members of his congregation to visit him at his home. These individuals were not just any members; they were his IRS agent and his lawyer.

Upon receiving his request, both the IRS agent and the lawyer promptly made their way to the preacher’s residence. They were led up to his bedroom, where the preacher lay waiting.

Upon entering the room, the old preacher extended his hands, gesturing for each guest to sit at his bedside—one on his left and the other on his right.

The preacher took hold of their hands, sighed with a sense of peace, smiled gently, and then gazed at the ceiling.

For a while, there was silence in the room. The IRS agent and the lawyer were deeply moved by the preacher’s gesture. Both felt incredibly honored to be called upon, especially during such a significant moment in his life.

However, they couldn’t help feeling a bit puzzled. The preacher had never shown any particular fondness or personal affection toward either of them previously.

Breaking the silence, the lawyer turned to the preacher and inquired, “Preacher, why did you choose to have us here by your side?”

The preacher, mustering all the strength he had left, whispered softly, “Jesus died between two thieves, and that’s how I want to go, too.”