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

When they arrived, they were both ushered to his bedroom. As they entered the room the preacher held out his hand and motioned them to sit on each side of his bed.

The preacher grasped their hands, sighed contentedly, smiled, and stared at the ceiling.
For a time, no one said anything. Both the banker and lawyer were touched and flattered that the preacher would ask them to be with him during his final moments. They were also puzzled; the preacher had never given indication that he particularly liked either of them. They both remembered his many long, uncomfortable sermons about greed, covetousness and avaricious behavior, that made them squirm in their seats.

Finally, the banker said, " Preacher, why did you ask us to come here?"
The old preacher mustered up his strength and then said weakly, " Jesus died between two thieves, and that's how I want to go."