For the past five months, the messages during the weekend worship services have been going through the Acts of the Apostles. This weekend, we will conclude that series as we hear about Paul reaching his destination of Rome. This weekend also marks the end of the Church Year and an emphasis on Jesus returning as Judge of the living and the dead and our destination of heaven. As our verse for the week puts it, “For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 5:9)

How much time do you spend contemplating your eternal destination? When I was young, I always had a very hard time sleeping the night before we left for vacation. I was already picturing in my mind seeing the lake for the first time, jumping in the water, being in the boat, walking in the woods scouting for raspberries, and playing with the cottage owner’s beagle. I’m sure if I could have seen myself, my face would have been beaming with a big smile. How much greater is the joy of heaven!

Unlike a vacation which comes to an end, our time in heaven will never end. We will bask in the glory of God. We shall behold Jesus and be with the angels, archangels, and a countless throng from every nation, tribe, people, and language all united in songs of praise and thanksgiving to our Triune God. No more pain and sorrow. No more mourning and tears. No more temptation and sin. The perfect love of God experienced without hindrance. And yes, our family reunion with all who have gone before us in the faith. Jesus came as our Savior from sin, death, and the devil so that can be ours. What a wondrous gift to contemplate and anticipate. Heaven is our home! Maranatha! Come quickly, Lord Jesus!

You may wish to prepare for this weekend’s worship by reading Isaiah 65:17-25, 1 Thessalonians 5: 1-11, Matthew 25:1-13, and Acts 28:11-31