Almost Home
By Pastor Ben

“Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior,
 the Lord Jesus Christ.”        (Philippians 3:20)

It’s music to your ears! Hearing “We’re almost home” after a long road trip. It’s comforting to know that you’ll soon be out of the car and back in your house, your bed, and your normal routine.

The apostle Paul took comfort in two homes — his earthly ministry and his heavenly mansion. He shared these thoughts with God’s people in Philippi:

“Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. . . . I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account.”                    (Philippians 1:20-24)

Paul longed to be with Christ, but he also loved his calling here on earth. He had a passion to advance the Gospel so that more people could call heaven home. He lived confidently, knowing that if Christ returned before he died, his life would continue in his Savior’s presence. And, if he died, he knew he would continue to live in that same presence in heaven.

For Paul and for us, eternal life doesn’t start when we die or when Christ returns. We’re living it now! By faith in Jesus, we are able to know God and experience the blessings of that relationship right now! Paul describes the promise of Scripture and our sure hope:

“He who began a good work in us, will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”                                (Philippians 1:6)

We can truly look forward to Christ’s triumphant return and His gift of Heaven as we travel through this life with God as our guide. His divine direction is always best, pointing us to the life, death, and resurrection of His Son, Jesus. His way is the only way home.

Yes, the best of our travels is yet to come. We’re almost home. What a perfect ending, without an end!

PRAYER STARTER:
Dear Lord, point me in the direction of Jesus, my Savior. I’m relying on Your grace and presence as You lead me on this never-ending journey . . .