The Wife in the Next Life

By: Abel Keogh, Julianna Keogh

Narrated by: Abel Keogh

I thought about our future and for the second time that day I envisioned a long, happy life together. But when my thoughts focused on the eternities, things got blurry. Could I move forward without all the answers?

We finished lunch and carried our dishes to the sink. As I rinsed off my plate, Abel set his dishes on the counter, stood directly behind me, and placed his hands on my hips. I closed my eyes and leaned against him, enjoying the feeling of our bodies pressed together. I knew if I turned around, Abel would kiss me. I rested the back of my head against his chest unsure if I was ready to take that step.

You don’t have to do this, I reminded myself. You can marry someone else. Someone who doesn’t have a wife in the next life.

***

When Julianna Taylor goes out on a date with Abel Keogh, she’s shocked to discover he’s a recent widower—he’s only 26. As they continue dating, she falls in love, but a relationship with Abel comes with thorny questions about eternal relationships and her place in Abel’s heart. Can she continue without knowing how things will work out?

At some point, we all face questions that don’t have easy answers. How we choose to proceed amid doubt and uncertainty can define the rest of our lives. This is Julianna and Abel’s inspirational, true story about their struggle to open their hearts and endure with faith even when the answers aren’t forthcoming.

©2022 Abel Keogh, Julianna Keogh (P)2023 Abel Keogh