Dying Preacher

An old preacher was dying. He sent a message for his IRS agent and his
lawyer (both church members), to come to his home.

When they arrived, they were ushered up to his bedroom. As they
entered the room, the preacher held out his hands and motioned for them
to sit on each side of the bed. The preacher grasped their hands,
sighed contentedly, smiled and stared at the ceiling.

For a time, no one said anything. Both the IRS agent and the lawyer
were touched and flattered that the old preacher would ask them to be
with him during his final moment. They were also puzzled because the
preacher had never given any indication that he particularly liked
either one of them.

Finally, the lawyer asked, "Preacher, why did you ask the two of us to
come?"

The old preacher mustered up some strength, then said weakly, "Jesus
died between two thieves, and that's how I want to go, too."