Best Gift Ever

God is going to hand me an inheritance someday. 'It is the Father’s good pleasure to GIVE me the Kingdom' (Luke 12:32). I have been reading the book Heaven, by Randy Alcorn, and the chapter I read today explored the promise of how we will reign in the Kingdom (the New Heavens and New Earth) as co-heirs with Christ – FOREVER. I mean, wow - that all sounds magnificent, but it is pretty hard to grasp, isn’t it?

 

Then, I had an epiphany! (I love it when that happens.)

 

This past Christmas, my little brother handed me an envelope. Inside was a note and the key to his old VW bus. Can I just tell you that was, undisputedly, one of the best moments of my entire life! Pure JOY and gratitude beyond compare. I mean, other than the gifts Jesus received from the wise men when he was on this earth, BEST GIFT EVER, right?! (Until Luke 12:32 is realized.)

 

Now, let me add a little reality to this picture for you. Upon receiving the key, that VW bus was stationary in my parent’s barn where it had been for 15 years. It was covered in dust and droppings, the tires were cracked, and it didn’t run. But none of that mattered. Not one bit! In my hand was the key to a promise of potential and purpose.

 

I do believe that joy-filled reception moment, the journey of possessing that gift thus far, and all the prospects the bus provides for the future, is a tangible way to understand the unfathomable and glorious gift of the Kingdom of Heaven.

 

Just like my brother gave me a key, God is going to give me a place in His Kingdom. And, just as the bus is a gift that requires work, reigning in His Kingdom will provide endless opportunities to participate in GOOD works. (Works that we were created for. Works that we long for.) Just like the bus will, hopefully, get better and better with time, reigning in His Kingdom will ensure exuberant and expanding experiences for eternity.

 

Maybe someday I will drive saints to another galaxy in a VW bus of sorts. What an honor it would be to serve God by joyfully serving others as an driver in the Kingdom of Heaven! Alright, I know we will probably not require vehicles there, but maybe we will still travel together as a way to enjoy fellowship. I can’t imagine Heaven without having the opportunity to go on another road trip with Araella, a few pets, a lot of laughter, singing, and discovering new places. Ah yes, that would be heavenly. I think wondering about the New Heavens and the New Earth should fill me with as much hope as thinking about a VW bus here.

Heavenly Father, I pray that Your Kingdom will come soon - and, I pray that until it does, the hope of Your Kingdom will fill us all with wonder and peace that passes earthly understanding. Amen.

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