Good morning:
Any plans for the long holiday weekend? I’ve wondered what it would be like to take to the road or head to the airport on the spur of the moment for a spontaneous getaway to an unplanned destination. It could be an exciting adventure. Who knows where you might end up. Travel sites offer last-minute deals and ideas to make it doable.
However, there is a downside. Interviews with people have shown that it is not just the vacation itself which provides enjoyment and makes the trip worthwhile. The anticipation of what lies in the future can be almost as good. Just thinking about the peaceful week at the lake in July can help get you through a hectic day in May. Planning hikes and other ways to explore a new part of the country can boost your optimism for everyday tasks months in advance of a road trip. Don’t skip the anticipation and miss out on its blessings for the present moment.
That is even more important when it comes to our future home in the glory of heaven. It will be perfect and forever. God will wipe every tear from our eyes. There will be no more sickness, disappointment, sadness, or death. All the things which make this life hard will be non-existent. “You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand” (Ps. 16:11). Every day will be an amazing adventure. Every day will be better than the one before.
Jesus could return at any moment to take us there. While we wait for His perfect timing, don’t miss the anticipation. When it’s been a tough day, anticipate what lies ahead: “Our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Rom. 8:18). When you’re weighed down by sin and its effects on your life, remember how Jesus paid for sin in full on the cross and made peace with God for you. Then anticipate, plan, and find new strength for another day. The apostle Paul did that. “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:13-14).
God’s plans for us are not spur of the moment, but rather His loving design from eternity. May He bless your anticipation of seeing those plans perfectly fulfilled.
In Christ,
Pastor
Services tomorrow are at 8:00 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday school is at 9:15 a.m. and adult Bible class at 9:30 a.m. The Bible class will review the prospectus for the upcoming CLC Convention.
