“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 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? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am." John 14:1-3 NIV
Whenever I return to Indiana to visit my family, my brother Greg and sister-in-law Lynn graciously invite me to stay at their home. Though transparent to me, I know there is preparation in having a guest; there is tidying, changing linens, planning meals, and shopping. I could stay in a hotel, but it would not be as nearly enjoyable. Our time together is spent sharing, talking, laughing, relaxing, and breaking bread. I want to be with them, and they with me.
Jesus wants us to be with him. Some versions interpret the verse as "many mansions," but I like the idea of many rooms. It's a great big house with everyone under one roof. Jesus, our host, is preparing one of those rooms for each of us. He is doing this because he wants us to be with him as much as we want to be with him.
That doesn't mean we are alone until he returns to get us. He made another promise, too, to send the Holy Spirit as a helper. So, while Jesus is readying our rooms, we also need to prepare, read, pray, meditate, and extend Christ's love through our words and actions–these are the contents of our spiritual suitcase.
Father, thank you for your tremendous love in sending your Son and the Holy Spirit. We look forward to that day when we are with you. But until then, help us prepare; to live lives worthy of your great promise. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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