"A Witness from a Russian Writer" - by Rev. Weldon Bares

There is something about the writings of the great Russian writer Fyodor Dostoevsky that seems to really touch my soul. “Crime and Punishment” and “The Brothers Karamazov” are two of the finest novels I have ever read.

Dostoevsky was a deep thinker. He was also a devoted Christian. He died in 1881.

His daughter, Aimee, wrote a biography of her father in 1921. I was able to find and buy the book on eBay.

She wrote about his death in the book: “He made us come into the room and, taking our little hands in his, he begged my mother to read the parable of the Prodigal Son.” (Luke chapter 15: 11-32)

He listened with his eyes closed to the reading of the story. He then said in a feeble voice, “My children, never forget what you have just heard. Have absolute faith in God and never despair of His pardon. I love you dearly, but my love is nothing compared to the love of God. You are His children. Humble yourselves before Him, as before your father, implore His pardon, and God will rejoice over your repentance, as the father rejoiced over the prodigal son.”

Such meaningful words from a brilliant man.

Shortly after this, Dostoevsky passed away. His daughter said, “I have been present at many deathbeds, but none was so radiant as that of my father. Without fear he saw the end approaching.”

I just believe that trusting God makes such a difference in facing life. It also makes an incredible difference in facing the end of life.

A brilliant Russian writer is our witness for today.