Heaven on My Mind

Paul was a wise man. He knew that if Jesus’ followers focused only on the here and now, on what they could literally see, then their lives would be pitiful and purposeless. He wrote, “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.” (Colossians 3:1)

People have asked me how I’m coping with, well you know, everything. Everything that we’re hearing, seeing, and experiencing. I think I’ve figured it out. The reason I’m not crying everyday or whining or worrying.

I’ve got heaven on my mind.

In heaven:

• There will be NO viruses. None. Zero. Zilch. You can stop and shout, right now. No more sickness, dying, or sitting at the bedside of a loved one as they waste away. No more vaccines, pills, anecdotes or remedies. Jesus who died and is alive forevermore conquered death and every shadow of death that is in our midst.

• Innocent men, women, and children WILL NOT be murdered. This happens every day, in every country that you can name. Lives snuffed out because they are inconvenient or because their skin color doesn't meet with someone else’s approval. Satan, the author of murder, lies, and hate won’t be on the guest list of heaven.

• Political party lines will disappear. I’m SO ready for this. Liberal, conservative, green, whatever - I’m really not sure that anyone understands everything each party is for or against. In heaven there’s one party. (I sure do love a party.) Every tribe, language, continent, and skin color will be represented. No more lines, no more labels, no more lies, no more fables. One throne. One authority. One Kingdom.

Until then, it doesn’t have to be the way it’s always been.

I’ll type that again: IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE THE WAY IT’S ALWAYS BEEN.

Jesus said, pray “Your Kingdom come, Your Will be done on EARTH as it is in heaven.”

• So, I’m praying for a vaccine and miraculous Covid healings. I’m asking God to cover my family and yours with divine strength, energy, and vitality. While at the same time, eating healthier and working out more.

• I’m searching my heart for any prejudice or hate and I’m asking God to change me and my fellow man. While at the same time, praying and asking for justice for those who have needlessly lost their lives. Also, I’m asking Him to use me with my brown skin to help the world see differently.

• I’m siding with Jesus. Yes, Jesus. (In every conversation and scenario that I see on the news or on my social media feed.) Jesus isn’t neutral, but He does see every side to every story. I’m praying that His Kingdom principles of love, justice, faith, and hope will cross all party lines and change our country for the better.

I’ve got heaven on my mind, but until that day, I’ll keep working and praying to bring heaven down here. Are you with me?