I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. Phil. 1:23 (NLT)
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. Rom. 8:18-19 (NIV)
For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. 2 Cor. 4:17 (ESV)
Lord Jesus, the more we ponder our eternal future with you, the more our hearts are filled with peace, joy, and hope. The deepest desires you’ve written into our DNA, our most intense longings for relationships and intimacy, and the insatiable thirst we carry for a world devoid of evil and filled with beauty… they’ll all find their fulfillment in the life to come. Jesus, thank you for earning heaven for us, and keeping us for heaven.
We agree with the Apostle Paul, it would be better by far to depart and be with you right now, Jesus, for you make heaven “heavenly.” It’s not about streets of gold, heavenly hosts, or angelic choirs. Heaven is primarily about being with you, the Father, and God the Holy Spirit.
We crave the full and unfettered relationship we’ll enjoy with you forever. We’re foolish to think anyone or anything else can fill the void, ease the ache, or satisfy the longings we have for you. Bring us back to gospel-sanity quickly, when our “light and momentary afflictions” feel heavier than a zoo full of elephants. Rescue us the very nanosecond our math fails us—when we longer value “the glory to be revealed in us,” to be greater than sufferings and brokenness of this world.
Don’t let us settle for “quick fixes,” when you’ve promised eternal wonder. Never let our pain be greater than your praise. May our worship of you always trump our whining about everything else. So very Amen we pray, in your beautiful and bountiful name.
