Going home

Thought for the day

"Say, Bill," a man said to his pal, "how do you like your new job?"

"It's the worst job I ever had."

"How long have you been there?"

"About three months."

"Why don't you quit?"

"No way. This is the first time in 20 years that I've looked forward to going home."

I feel the same way about living in this world. Sometimes people wonder why God didn't give us a "perfect" world in which to live. Of course, their idea of "perfect" means a world without pain, without suffering, without hatred, without all the things that sometimes make life miserable for us. Why couldn't God have made a better place for us?

I wouldn't dare attempt to explain it all in just a couple of short paragraphs, but I can say that living in this world with all of its trials and difficulties makes me look forward to going home. I look forward to the day when I will know no more suffering, but will rest in the arms of a loving Father. I look forward to the day when I don't see the consequences of sin all about me, but will enjoy the fellowship of God's family throughout all ages. Don't get me wrong -- life here is good, it's wonderful! But it can't compare with what waits for me. I'm looking forward to going home!

"In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. 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 14:2-3, NIV)

Verses

1 John 5:4

Because everyone who has been born of God conquers the world, and this is the victory that triumphs over the world, the faith that we have.

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

2 Corinthians 1:20

For in him every one of God's promises is a "Yes." For this reason it is through him that we say the "Amen," to the glory of God.

Romans 12:12

Base your happiness on your hope in Christ. When trials come endure them patiently; steadfastly maintain the habit of prayer.

Proverbs 13:21

Calamity pursues sinners, but prosperity rewards the righteous.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, as I commit myself to You this day, I ask that You make me a glowing ember of Your truth, Your wisdom, and Your compassionate mercy. I want my light to shine for You so that all glory will be directed back to You, my source of light. If I find myself in the midst of a circle of employees engaged in ungodly conversation help me not to blend in. But rather help me to be the light of Your glory in my conversation, full of grace seasoned with salt, so that I will know how to respond to each person. I ask that You would reveal to me any false motivation for carrying out good deeds. Remind me that it is for Your glory that I do these things. It is neither for the praise of others nor for personal advancement, but the advancement of the Gospel. Lord, help me to reach just one today with an unexpected act of kindness that will direct the recipient’s thoughts toward my Father in heaven. In Your name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.