Pastor Travis Burkett
Philippians 3:20-21, “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.”
Billy Graham once said, “My home is in Heaven. I’m just passing through this world.” The earth is full of outstanding sights and epic experiences that simply take our breath away. Whether it’s watching a beautiful sunset in Western Pennsylvania, exploring the mountains in the West, or enjoying the beaches all around, there is no doubt that this world is awesome! We are drawn to so many things in this world, but this world is temporary. This is not a place of forever. I love what Billy Graham said because it brings reality to the focus of his life, his focus was not here, but it was set on the things above. As Philippians 3 says, our conversation is in Heaven because Jesus has changed us. Let me ask as we begin, are we focused on our temporary home or on our citizenship in Heaven?
Our citizenship in Jesus is in Heaven. Therefore, when we experience pain or difficulties here, we can focus our perception on this truth. When the pain is strong, and we question how to get through, we can find the confidence that it’s temporary and set our focus on Jesus. The Bible says in James 4:14, “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” Our time on earth is tiny compared to our eternity. If you know Jesus, do you have an eternal mindset?
Maybe you’ve asked yourself, what is Heaven like? Well, the Bible gives us some examples of what our eternal home will be like. The Bible says that God has prepared something great for those who love Him (1 Corinthians 2:9). In Revelation 21, the Bible gives a great glimpse into Heaven as John shares his account. It says that it is a holy city. God will live with us. We will be His people. He will wipe away every tear. There will be no more death or pain. Jesus is making everything new. It shines with God’s glory. God is our temple there. God is our light. There will be no evil.
Friend, can you imagine? A place of no corruption or evil. A place where God’s glory is so bright that it outshines the sun. A place where there is no pain or disease. We only get a glimpse, and it’s so overwhelming to think about. So, what’s the challenge? The challenge is simple, live today like you’re a citizen of Heaven. Don’t allow yourself to get wrapped up in the things of this world but focus on your HOME! When your focus is on Heaven, you shine your light here so that those around you may see your God and have a desire to know Him too.
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