I See Heaven
When we think of death, we think of it as the loss of someone loved,
someone close. We think of them as someone who is gone forever
as far as this life is concerned. And we think of how empty we are
without their constant presence.
But perhaps, our thinking is wrong, or at least, altered from what
death really is.
Imagine Heaven.
What do you suppose is happening there right now?
Of course, the classic image is of gates of pearl, streets of gold,
winged angels, loved ones walking about in perfect peace�
Ah serenity.
Nonsense!
Oh, I agree. Certainly there is peace, and happiness, and joy.
But I don't think the residents of Heaven are wallowing in it.
Have you ever seen what a home looks like that is preparing
for a wedding?
I have.
And I must say, with absolute honesty, that it is rarely a haven
for those seeking peace and serenity.
I imagine that the first thing a Christian experiences, after a big
hug from God Himself, is a flurry of activity coming from all
corners, (if Heaven even has corners) of this wondrous realm.
There would be angels flying about, practicing for the great
chorus that's to be sung at Christ's return, as well as all the
greatest chefs who have ever died, debating about what would
be the best choice's for the marriage banquet.
Every Christian mother that has ever lived will be involved in
decorating the heavenly city with flowers, bells, bows, ribbons,
gems, and every conceivable thing of beauty that exists.
Likely, these wondrous women will also be instructing every
Christian son or daughter that has ever lived on how to behave
before, during, and after the ceremony.
In the wide open fields outside the city, all of Heaven's youngest
children would be playing games, probably not much different than
the games children play here.
There would be running games like tag, Blind Man's Bluff, and
Hide and go Seek, as well as others like Hopscotch, Red-light
Green-light, and the Heavenly version of marbles played with gemstones.
As this newest addition to Heaven adjusts to the activity, he or she
would likely be approached by one of the hard working mothers.
After a warm welcome involving their favorite flavor of coffee and a
wide selection of cookies, pies, cakes and brownies, the person
would be given tasks to perform. Unlike weddings down here,
there would be no anxiety at all. The only emotions would be utter
happiness, as well as a healthy dose of anticipation. The happiness
would come from the glory of being with Christ in paradise. The
lack of anxiety would come from knowing they didn't have to pay
for anything.
By nightfall, (and don't think there isn't nighttime in Heaven. I don't
think God would have created all those beautiful stars if we could
only see them on Earth) the activity would slow, and our family in
Heaven would gather at the feet of God to hear him speak.
Afterward, God would tell them of the prayers from Earth, and
the entire congregation would join hands while God answered
every one. Then, a company of angels would walk amongst the
group, passing around a plateful of Manna, followed by a
goblet of wine. As soon as everyone was served, God would
bless the food, and they would eat.
All these things would happen in the time that it takes us to take
a breath. As we prepare for sleep, years will pass in Heaven.
Thousands of years have passed since our birth. And thousands
will have passed by the time that we too die.
And then it will be our turn to prepare.