An emergency nurse informed me about a patient’s status, saying, “They’re going upstairs.” Serving as a hospital chaplain and trying to grasp the severity of their condition, I innocently asked a clarifying question,“My upstairs, or your upstairs?”

In other words, was the nurse simply indicating that the patient was being moved to the hospital’s second floor for overnight admission, or were they hinting at something more about the patient’s living status?

This seemingly awkward phrase takes on a profound meaning when thinking about one of the greatest human questions: “What happens when someone dies?”

The answers vary and all reflect a different perspective on life, death, and the afterlife. Some believe the body returns to the earth, others to judgment, some journey into the unknown, while others are reborn. Some anticipate reuniting with loved ones, others believe in a form of reward or punishment, while still others envision merging into a oneness.

For a Christian, “upstairs” takes on a profound meaning when contemplating death, as it expresses the hope of eternal life and the transition to heaven for those who are followers of Jesus. While Jesus was on earth, as fully God and man, he lived on mission to preach the good news and to bring salvation to all who believed.

Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, there is hope for forgiveness and life after death for all of humanity.“Upstairs” is the heavenly home prepared by God, as Jesus promised in John 14:2: “In my Father’s house are many rooms.”

When Jesus’ disciples questioned him about his mission and eternal life, he responded, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am”(John 14:3). Jesus promised eternal life in heaven to all who accept His loving invitation into a saving relationship with Him. Jesus cares for His followers as He personally prepares a place for them in His eternal kingdom.

Christ’s assurance of His return is emphasized when He says, “I will come back” and take those in Him to be eternally in union with Him. Jesus highlights that true hope is found in a relationship with Him, not merely in believing His teachings. Jesus stresses this union as He declares, “you also may be where I am.”

A Christ follower looks forward to the “upstairs” where one can be in a resting place of God’s care. As I was reminded recently by a patient, this question also serves as a reminder to live with eternity in mind as we never know when God will call us “upstairs.

“In light of this truth, the question, “My upstairs, or your upstairs?” challenges us to consider our own eternal destination and relationship with Jesus. As Jesus promises a place prepared for each who accepts His love, we are invited not only to reflect on what happens after this life but also to consider how we live now.

Are we living with eternity in mind, pursuing a life centered on Christ and His teachings? Are you open to the invitation of His love and promises?

If so, you’re not just preparing for “upstairs” in the afterlife but embracing life of purpose, hope, and meaning both now and for eternity.

Frank Alioto is the pastor of Roots Family Church and serves as a chaplain in our community.