I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. Phil. 1:23 (NLT)
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. Rom. 8:18-19 (NIV)
For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. 2 Cor. 4:17 (ESV)
Dear Lord Jesus, the peace and joy I have pondering our eternal future with you is beyond measure and without comparison. The deepest desires you’ve written into our DNA; our most intense longings for relationships and intimacy; the insatiable thirst we carry for a perfect world and perfect everything… they will all find their fulfillment in the life to come. Jesus, thank you for earning heaven for us, and for keeping us for heaven.
I agree with the Apostle Paul, it would be better by far to depart and be with you right now, Jesus; for you make heaven “heavenly”. It’s not about streets of gold, angels dancing around singing, or even being freed from all brokenness and pain. Heaven is primarily about being with you, the Father, and the Spirit. Oh, how I crave the unbroken, unfettered, and uninhibited relationship we will enjoy with you forever.
I am a foolish man to think anyone or anything else can fill the void, ease the ache, or satisfy this longing I have for you. Bring me back to gospel-sanity quickly, when my “light momentary affliction” feels eternal and heavier than a pack of elephants. Rescue me the very nanosecond my math fails me, and I no longer consider the glory to be revealed in us to be greater than the difficulty our present sufferings in this world.
Don’t ever, ever, ever let me settle for a “quick fix” when you have promised eternal wonder. Never let my pain out weigh your praise. Never let me outlive my love for you, Jesus. So very Amen I pray, in your beautiful and bodacious name.
