Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – September 15, 2014
My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? John 14:2
Jesus makes a promise about His home; it is our home. Yes, one of the benefits of believing in Jesus is being with Jesus. His Father has a home in heaven with incredible amenities–way, way beyond what the human mind can imagine. Our eternal dwelling is attached to our Father’s mansion. As children of the Most High we are in the presence of our heavenly Father. Our heavenly home is sweet because we are with our Savior Jesus. An expansive but intimate home.
Fearing death and the death of their leader, the disciples needed reassurance and comfort. What did the future hold? Is heaven for real, if so, will they be there? Since Jesus was from heaven, He was able to give them an insider’s perspective. For three years they enjoyed imperfect fellowship with Jesus, but as citizens of heaven they would worshipfully celebrate perfect union with Christ. Yes, without sin’s distractions our heavenly home is pure love, fulfilled by oneness with God.
“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:3-4).
Our life on earth can be described as an adventurous trip to our eternal dwelling place. We spend our appointed time on earth, while our spirit longs to be with the Father, Son and Spirit in heaven. This is why we work against becoming attached to anything not grounded in God’s will. Do you care for your soul by not being enamored with the cares of this world? By faith, reflect on and relish your homecoming with Christ. A satisfied soul seeks its final destination with grace.
Even more exciting is what we can anticipate from our Savior’s personal preparations for us. The construction of our eternal dwelling is magnificently designed by the ultimate interior designer, our splendid Savior Jesus. We enjoy the comforts of our current home, but it’s a ragged pup tent compared to our divine dwelling in–“the sweet bye and bye.” A tired soul can trust its Savior–rest is on the way. The joy of being with Christ is heartening. Look up there. See His glory, the glory of the One who gave Himself for us. We’re going home–to home sweet home!
“But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. [He] prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit” (Acts 7:55, 59).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me the grace to prepare for the place You have prepared for me.
Related Readings: Isaiah 38:12; John 21:18-19; 2 Corinthians 5:1-4; 2 Peter 1:13-15; Revelation 21:15-27
Post/Tweet today: One of the benefits of believing in Jesus is being with Jesus–here and in heaven. #wisdomhunters
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