"Almost Home"

Reflection

“He was looking for the city which has foundations, whose architect and builder is God.” Hebrews 11:10

The writer of Hebrews tells us how Abraham set his sights upon a city built by God. An eternal city where his promised rest awaited him. A celestial city which could not be seen with human eyes or grasped with human hands. This city is called heaven. Abraham, who was recorded in Scripture as being “the friend of God'' and “the father of many nations,” looked ahead toward this city with foundations that would never be disturbed. We, too, look ahead to this city. By faith we set our hearts upon the living hope of a resurrection and an eternity in heaven with God. There we will experience the fullness of His joy and partake of the pleasures of His right hand forevermore (Ps. 16:11). This is a hope that is alive, and it stirs our hearts with a certainty that overrides  all lasting doubt. This heavenly city awaiting God’s people is as certain as death. In fact, due to the finished work of Jesus Christ our Lord, we can look forward to the grave with courageous faith and quiet assurance knowing that our God has overcome sin and death. What sins burden you today brother? What physical ailments torment your body sister? What circumstances poison your joy? Lift your eyes to the city above and consider your end. God will be faithful to guide you with His counsel in this life, and afterward He will take you into His glory (Ps. 73:24). Meditating on these things can soothe the aching soul. This city, whose architect and builder is God, is the inheritance of each child that has been adopted into the family of God. It is imperishable (1 Pet. 1:4). Our arrival to our heavenly home is ensured by the constant intercession of Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. Let us look with faith to this city and rejoice in the hope of what is to come. When we arrive our previous pains will be eclipsed by the joy of the Lord, and the beauties of eternal life with Him!

“Heaven’s sweetest rest awaits

Those marvelous and blessed gates

Shall open up to welcome me

A sinner simply saved by grace”