An old preacher was dying.

He sent a message for his IRS agent and his Lawyer, 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

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 "Father, 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."