and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” (‭Acts‬ ‭1‬:‭11‬ ESV)

When it comes to the subject of Jesus’ return to earth, there seem to be two extremes within Christian culture. Some believers seem to have their heads in the clouds, but have no impact in the world around them. Then there are others who are more hip than holy.

Some gaze constantly toward heaven; others barely give heaven a glance.

Somewhere between those extremes is found the beauty of expectancy, coupled with a heart for the world.

Quite honestly, I don’t think we talk about heaven enough. Old-school saints know about heaven. They grew up hearing sermons about it (and hell). They sang about heaven. They long for heaven.

I find myself longing for heaven more than ever before. When someone I love dies I pause and thank God for the promise of heaven.

But while meditating on the wonders of spending eternity with Jesus, I find myself motivated with a compassion to reach the world with the hope of Jesus. Heaven motivates me to reach the world.

Father,
Thank You for heaven. Help me to get more people there.
Amen.