Over 4th of July weekend, my family had a pleasant discussion about Heaven and meeting Jesus face to face. I love talking about our eternal life with Christ! There was a time that I was scared of death. In my immature way of thinking, I wanted to experience what this life had to offer before dying. I wanted to experience things like driving, college, graduating, living on my own, getting married, the fun of making kids, and having kids.

In Philippians 1:21-23 Paul writes:

For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better. I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me.

I’ve experienced all of those things and while I am greatly enjoying them all, none of those things have fulfilled the deepest part of my soul like I thought it would. I’ve learned that only when I’m face-to-face with my Savior, Jesus Christ, will I ever fully feel complete. Don’t misunderstand me; I’m in no hurry to leave this life that God has given me. I do desire to grow old with my beautiful wife, to raise and see my boys become strong and godly men, and to be a “Pops” like my dad is now. I want to see the church grow and I want to see God’s kingdom advance.  But none of that will compare to Heaven.

So I’m with Paul; I’m torn between serving Christ here as a husband, father, brother, and friend and going home to see my Father. There’s going to be nothing better than to be with Jesus forever.

I challenge you to think about such things. Do you find yourself being afraid to die? Or, do you find yourself longing for the day that you get to meet Jesus. Pray over these thoughts and these songs as we prepare to gather again. Use these songs to focus your attention on the Lord this week.

• Lay Me Down – Passion Band
• Oceans – Hillsong United
• How Great Thou Art – Newsong