I think when we get to heaven, it will be familiar; surprisingly familiar, but unbelievably better than we could ever imagine.
This world is not reality. It is a shadow cast by the Real thing. It is an outline or a form. "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror, then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully even as I am fully known." This world is an impression, much like a fingerprint. It is evidence that something greater exists.
The things in this world that are good, like breathtaking scenery, laughter, food, soul-stirring music, sex, friendship, love...their origins are in heaven. They are reflections of the original; simple tastes of heaven that whet our appetites for the Feast that awaits us there.
What is it that we are experiencing when we are affected by beauty? When we wish a time of laughter and fellowship with friends wouldn't have to end? When we feel a soul connection with our mate, or when a beautiful song moves us to tears?
They are glimpses of heaven. They are reminders of our hunger; our longing to be filled, to be loved, to be happy. They are echoes of a Voice that is calling us home. Oh to turn our eyes and ears to heaven...and smile, knowing that is reality; that is where our hearts belong.
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Thanks Ashley! I agree wholeheartedly! I love the picture on this blog. It reminds me of Baron Fork Creek, near Stilwell, OK where we grew up swimming. It is a place where mind body and soul meet. Where I was invited to see the spiritual side of life. I think I've lived there ever since. Thanks again!
ReplyDeleteI think there is a place outside of Dolores, Co. that looks like this too :)
ReplyDeleteO to be home. . .
'...They are reminders of our hunger, our longing to be filled, to be loved, to be happy...' Amen to that. And yet I don't think we should only long for that in the future, after our earthly lives are over. Rather we should realize that we are living in the beginning of our eternity right now and that God desires these things for us now, just as much as we desire them deep in our heart of hearts. You are right on -- the things that awaken in us this hunger that only God can fill, like music, relationships and nature, are an incredible reminder of the quality of life, real life with our spiritual eyes opened, that God wants for us now and for EVER.
ReplyDeleteWow, I needed that today especially. I too love the picture. Water has always been a peaceful place for me to reflect and be still....so I can listen
ReplyDeleteKathy,I agree with you on that! John 17:3 says, "Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." Yes! Eternal life begins now! As we get to know God here, we can experience or enter in to eternal life here. However, I think its true what Augustine said, "the whole life of the good Christian...a holy longing." And Gerald May: "The truth is, we were never meant to be completely satisfied" (in this life). There will remain in us an ache until we see Jesus face to face.
ReplyDeleteI think this world is a reality, just as heaven and hell are realities. But the only lasting realities are spiritual, since God is a spirit. "And those who worship Him do so in spirit and in truth." So our spiritual relationship with Him, and like relationships with other believers, is the only reality that matters. You think?
ReplyDelete~Donna Lyons
Kathleen, we've talked about our meeting place once we get Home, huh?!
ReplyDelete