Image: William Nathan Godfrey (1936 - 2006)
My father died a week ago Friday. As our family journeyed through his last difficult weeks one of the pastors at my church made a very helpful comment: "We are not made for this world."
This was certainly true of my Dad's golf swing. We joked with him on the day he died that he wouldn't have to worry about that any more. Everyone shoots under par in heaven.
There was so much more to my father than his earthly tent. His memorial service made this clear: he was a man who left a legacy which he is now enjoying from his heavenly estate.
Just as Israel was on a journey from the tabernacle in the desert, to the temple in Jerusalem, and finally to the true sanctuary in heaven, so we as the community of Jesus are on a journey to that very same heavenly destination. The person with the mustard seed of the Spirit planted within understands this innately.
This changes everything regarding our present life on earth. Physical, emotional, financial, and familial limitations are only temporary. There is ran overwhelming confidence in the Lord's ability to redeem every limitation and loss. The word the Apostle Paul uses here for "confident" can also mean to be "of good courage" (RSV).
Our goal is therefore not personal peace and affluence but rather to bring glory to God. My father did this well in the way he invested his life and his resources. I want to do likewise.
It's a sobering thought to realize that one day we will stand before the judgment seat of Christ and receive what is due us for the things done while in the body. Let us thank the Lord for the many good things he has already done through us. Let us also examine ourselves, and put an end to any bad things that continue.
Father, we rejoice today that you have called us your children, and that you have an estate in heaven prepared for us. We look forward now to investing today in a way that most pleases you.
More information on my Dad:
http://www.legacy.com/JSOnline/DeathNotices.asp?Page=Lifestory&PersonId=17973207
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=431856
