John 14:1-14

Throughout my journey on this decaying planet, I’ve witnessed many (Christians and non-believers) who harbored major concerns about life after death. I must admit, it can get a bit frightening at times, spending too much time thinking about never existing in this realm after death, but when you know what to expect in the next life, the worry and fear of the once unknown, will disappear in mere moments.

Those who are in Christ Jesus, can expect unimaginable blessings, and great inheritance in the life to come. In our text, Jesus comforted His troubled disciples by reminding them that He would soon leave the earth, but during His time away, He would prepare a place where they could abide with Him forever. There’s been much speculation, along with varying interpretations on the descriptions of Heaven mentioned by Christ, but whether we’ll live in actual mansions, or not, I just want to be there.

It’s unfortunate that after all the teachings and miracles performed by Jesus, His disciples still had their doubts about His sovereignty. Their doubts weren’t developed from disrespect, but I can only imagine that their finite minds and limited understanding caused them to not fully understand what Jesus continually presented to them. Jesus knew how to handle His followers, but stressed more than anything, He is the only way to the Father. The words Jesus spoke, were not His own. The works Jesus performed, were not His own. The miracles Jesus manifested, were not by His own doing. The reason Jesus was able to do those things which were beyond human comprehension was, because He was in the Father, and the Father in Him. For this reason, Jesus told His disciples, when they believe in Him, they are also believing in God. But, if perhaps they fail to believe this obvious truth, Jesus humbly expressed, “or else believe me for the very works’ sake” (vs. 11b).  In other words, “if you’re simply too naive to hear and understand the truth of my words, then base the truth on the miraculous works you’ve witnessed with your own eyes” (Elliott’s translation).

One day soon, we’ll all see death, but the thought of that day doesn’t have to bring fear and worry in our hearts. In fact, the Bible reads in Psalm 116:15, “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints”. When a Saint dies, God is excited, because they can then see those things that were only read in the Scriptures.

As you continue your journey on this side of Heaven, keep your chin up, and consider all those amazing things that await you in the next life. We have trained our eyes, minds, and hearts to only concern ourselves with the cares of this world, but meditate more on what God has prepared for us in Heaven, then you’ll be able to live a more bold and dedicated life on this earth.

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell