What’s Your Ultimate Destination?
It’s late June, and just about everyone is in vacation mode. With the worst of the pandemic seemingly behind us, people are more anxious than ever to get out of their house and out of their routine in search of a destination that can provide a source of fun and excitement as well as rest and relaxation.
Where are you planning to go this summer, and what are you hoping to do? Some people have a favorite spot that they visit every year. Others like to try different venues with each vacation. Either way, it’s clear that successful getaways require thoughtful planning, adequate financial resources, and a positive attitude.
The week before last, we were blessed to spend time with our daughter and her family in the Tampa-Clearwater-Orlando area, and we had a blast — great weather, delicious food, pristine beaches, and, of course, a trip to the enchanting World of Disney. It was such a wonderful experience that it caused me to wonder what things will be like when we conclude our journey in this world and reach our final destination in the glory of the ultimate Magic Kingdom.
Eternal paradise is beyond human comprehension, but the Gospel of John gives us a glimpse with some valuable perspective and assurance that our reservations have been made and that our room is waiting with this passage from Chapter 14, Verses 1-7: “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.”
Thomas, the doubter, was uncertain of where Jesus was going, so he asked in that same passage, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?”
Jesus answered with this profound statement: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.”
As I lounged on the white sandy beaches in Clearwater and listened to the gentle waves cresting under the beautiful blue skies, I wondered if I was getting a preview of paradise, but I was quickly reminded that nothing in this world can compare to that which is to come.
All of this should bring comfort to those who believe. The Lord has a place for all of us that will exponentially exceed our wildest expectations.
This is not to say that we should not be engaging in some form of planning — like affirming our commitment to Jesus Christ, keeping His commandments, loving others, and serving those in need — but once we have checked those boxes, we are ready to soar and joyfully take the place that he has set aside for us.
Until We Meet Again, Be Blessed! – Pastor John