Homeward Bound

Well, my stars! You better come right on up here on this ol’ front porch, friend, and scoot that ol’ rocker over before them lil’ ol’ squirrels claim it and start chargin’ rent. I’m so doggone glad to git to be layin’ these ol’ eyes on you today. So, settle yourself in like an ol’ hound dog that finally found the best sunny spot because we’re gonna be talkin’ about somethin’ sweeter than blackberry cobbler coolin’ on a windowsill. Friend, we’re talkin’ about home.

Life has a way of separatin’ us out from one another. Children grow up, friends move away, and sometimes somebody we dearly love steps into eternity before we’re ready to turn loose of ‘em. Grief can sho’-nuff’ sit real heavy on the heart like an ol’ wet mule blanket.

But Scripture sho’-nuff’ reminds us that Christians ain’t wanderin’ toward nowhere. Hebrews 13:14 says, ’’ For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come.” Friend, this here ol’ world is only just home for right now, but it ain’t our final address.

That’s why Paul could comfort all them grievin’ believers in           1 Thessalonians 4:17-18. He promised that believers will someday be “caught up together” to meet the Lord and “thus we shall always be with the Lord.” Notice that beautiful word, together. Heaven isn’t just about golden streets. It’s downright about Jesus, and because of Jesus, there’s sho’-nuff’ sweet reunion.

Christ Himself gave us the same assurance in John 14:1-4. He told troubled hearts that He was plum preparing a place for ‘em and He sho’-nuff’ promised, “I will come again and receive you to Myself.” Jesus didn’t leave us standin’ at eternity’s bus stop all by ourselves wonderin’ whether our ride was comin’ or not.

So, when grief starts scratchin’ at the door like an ol’ raccoon after the supper scraps, you gotta remember this: separation downright has an expiration date.

Father, when we miss those we love, anchor our hearts in Your promises. Thank You that death does not have the final word for those who belong to Christ. Keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and fill us with the hope of the great reunion ahead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Now git right on back into your day, friend, with your chin held up and your hope buckled down tight. This here road may twist like a lil’ ol’ fox trail through the pines, but Jesus already plum knows where it ends. The grave ain’t the last gate on the fence. Home is up ahead, the table is sho’-nuff’ bein’ set, and one glorious day God’s family is gonna gather where nobody ever has to say goodbye ever again.

With joy,

Gwen