Solitude with the Father

As a child, death was a scary thought.  As a teenager I told Jesus please don’t come back until I experience marriage and have children of my own.

Now?  I don’t know about you but for me, Christ could come back any time.  Sure I would like to see my grandchildren.   There are things I would like to do while I’m here on this earth.  However, as I see this world turning from God, struggle with my sin, see my children struggle in areas of their lives, I get tired of it.

My quiet time was in the book of Romans chapter eight verses 18-39 and what struck me was that in times of suffering, we need to focus on the hope that is to come.  The time we will be home with the Father.

Paul says in verse 18 that he even considered that sufferings weren’t even worthwhile to complain about when compared to what we would experience in Heaven.

Close your eyes for a few moments and try to picture what Heaven would be like.

For me I see lush emerald green grass, gardens of every type rose (my favorite) and flower.  There is light all the time (no need for sunscreen), huge forests. The lakes and rivers are so clear you can see the bottom, and to taste them would be like sweet honey.  Waterfalls are cascading into cool clear pools. Every one of the five senses would be experienced in the ultimate High Definition.

There is relief in knowing that I couldn’t make a wrong decision, or lose my temper.  But most  of all I imagine that I will walk with Jesus without shame for the wrong I had done. He tells me how much He loves me and gives me a big bear hug.

Oh, my friend, my description doesn’t even come close to reality, I’m sure, yet what comfort it brings.  To know that this life is not all there is, priceless. That is our hope.

Are you tired of the bad news on TV, your struggle with sin, your work situation or even the physical and emotional pain you may be experiencing?

Hear precious one, His promise to you,

“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live 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.”

Revelations 21:3,4     (NIV1984)