WHERE IS YOUR REAL HOME?

October 28 

We prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord.  2 Corinthians 5:8

How many places have you called “home” in your lifetime?  My birth home was Manheim, PA.  Since getting married in 1979 we have lived in 15 different dwellings in four states (IN, PA, OH, VT) plus New Zealand.  But all these are really just homes away from our ultimate home: Heaven. 

The Apostle Paul affirmed that he was a citizen of heaven, and was patiently waiting for His Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ to come and take him home (Philippians 3:20)!  I can fully relate to what Paul is saying!  You might ask, “How can I be absolutely sure that my final home will be in heaven and not hell?”  Great question!!  Jesus Christ told us that there are many mansions/dwelling places in the Father’s house/heaven, and He wants to prepare one for all who will trust Him for forgiveness of their sins and eternal life (John 14:1-6).    

In Jesus’ parable (Luke 15:11-32) the wayward son wastes his portion of his father’s inheritance with wild, immoral living in a far-off land.  When his money is gone, he is forced to feed pigs.  Seeking forgiveness, he risks going home to his father hoping to be a servant.  But his father welcomes and forgives him rejoicing, “My son is back!  He is home!” 

The same is true when we repent of our sin and put our trust in Jesus.  We are received whole-heartedly by our heavenly Father, forgiven of our sins, adopted into His forever family and have a home reserved for us on high!  Don’t you dare settle for anything less!  I really look forward to going HOME someday!  Will I see you there? 

Bob Kulp