Heaven

This past Sunday, I was really struck by the sermon and some conversations I had before the sermon at First Presbyterian Church in Michigan City. The scripture focus was on Revelations 21:1-4. 

Revelation 21:1-4(NIV) A New Heaven and a New Earth

"Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,”for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’[b] or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”"

I have recently read Revelations, but there is so much in there and each time I read it I am struck by new things. This time was no different. 

First of all, heaven is one of the great mysteries of life. But, I think most people have some idea in their head of what their heaven would be. So, this Sunday I began gathering my random thoughts of "my heaven". I think heaven is surrounded with a feeling of love and peace. People treat each other in ways to make sure that peace and love are felt by those around them. How does that happen? Listening, caring, serving, thinking of others needs and finding ways to tend to them. Upon arrival, the sounds of the Amen chorus from Handel's Messiah will welcome everyone who enters. Whenever I've sung it, that is how I've pictured heaven sounding. Abundant joy! I can't forget the joy, the fun that will be in heaven! That brings me to another song! "Big, Big House" details God's house in heaven with lots and lots of rooms, a table with lots and lots of food, and a big yard where we can play football! This old VBS favorite always makes me smile as I sing and do the motions and picture the joy in heaven! I have told people that at my funeral, this song better be sung- and everyone must do the motions! (we can do it again if everyone doesn't participate in the fun! And, just ask some of my former youth, they'll tell you I'm serious about doing it again!) Of course, loved ones will be around us, and the Most Loving One, Jesus, with His arms outstretched to wrap us in a big hug! 

Secondly, what is the scripture saying? God is with us and He will be our comforter. And, that's not all! The old will pass away and be replaced by heaven here on earth! 

We are called to do what we can to create heaven on earth, to bring heaven to those around us. How do we do that? I'm working on what I need to do. Going back to my thoughts of heaven, I need to listen, care, serve, and tend to others needs. I'm not going to go around singing Handel's Messiah, but how can I bring that feeling of overwhelming peace and beauty to others? I'm thinking about that. Bringing to others abundant joy and fun, laughter and showing hospitality sounds like a great goal! And, I'm determined to have have fun working on that!

What does your heaven look like, feel like, sound like, look like? How can you give that experience to those around you? How can you bring heaven to earth?
Blessings,
Jennifer