When I was young, I didn’t really think about heaven that much. First, it seemed so boring – at least the way the world describes it. Second, it seemed like a long way off. And third, I didn’t have anybody there that I knew. But I know a lot of people who are in heaven now. I can’t wait to get there and be with them. Yet, the apostle Paul said, “There will be one huge family reunion with the Master. So reassure one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:17–18, The Message), showing how we’ll see famous people in heaven from throughout Christian history and scientists and world leaders and people from every tribe and nation and that we’re going to have all of eternity to talk with them.
In heaven, we’re going to be reunited with our loved ones who love the Lord. Those who are in the family of God are all going to be there. I have many dear people who served with me in ministry in heaven. The more of my family and friends who are on that side of death, the dearer heaven becomes to me. This is God’s goodness to us, that there is no greater hope in life than a big family reunion for eternity.
Are you encouraged by the thought of being in the presence of Jesus and reunited with your friends and family in heaven one day?
Blessed Lunar New Year weekend!
Profile Background:
Dr. Rick Warren leads a 30,000–member congregation in California with campuses in major cities around the world. As an author, his book The Purpose Driven Life is one of the best-selling nonfiction books in publishing history. It has been translated into 74 languages and sold more than 50 million copies in all formats. His book The Purpose Driven Church was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the century. Rick also founded The PEACE Plan to address five global issues – spiritual emptiness, self-serving leadership, poverty, disease, and illiteracy through the power of ordinary people in the local church.
Prayer Response to this featured article:
Thank you Jesus that you’re going to reunite us with our loved ones in heaven – those who love the Lord today;
(Written by Dr Rick Warren – 13th February 2023, for 9th February 2024, CNY Eve)
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