Connecting Point: Eyes Wide Open

If you have felt discouraged and overwhelmed at times consider the often quoted Billy Graham: “The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God with tears in my eyes, and say, ‘O God, forgive me,’ “Help me.’” Help me, indeed. In my sermons and thoughts lately, I have attempted to be of encouragement. I continue today’s introspection by reminding you to keep your eyes on heaven.

First, you are valuable to God. Jesus spoke in parables to help his audience and us understand God the Father. For example, we read in Luke, “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? (Luke 15:4). The Gospel message is focused on saving that which is lost, humanity. God saw our value. Christ went to the Cross and was resurrected on the third day so that we can be redeemed. Salvation through faith in Jesus is possible when we repent of our sins and turn to Jesus.

Secondly, living with the hope of heaven helps us to have courage in the face of trouble. Lee Stroble shares a story of a young man who was hospitalized for 13 years of his 17-year life. At age one, he fell downstairs, injuring him for a life of chronic suffering. When asked about his faith in God he said, “God can make it up to me in eternity.” I don’t know about you, but my hardships in life pale in comparison. We can easily get bogged down by difficulties; however, the perspective of heaven puts everything in proper focus. Saint Teresa of Avila said, “In light of heaven, the worst suffering on earth will be seen to be no more serious than one night in an inconvenient hotel.”

Thirdly, living with the hope of heaven fills us with the joy of anticipation. By faith, we look forward to heaven’s reward. Paul reminds us of the encouraging words of Isaiah, “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived, the things God has prepared for those who love him,” (1 Corinthians 2:9).

Jesus reiterates a similar sentiment, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going,” (John 14:1-4). These words leave us with the certain hope that Christ is our Savior. Beyond this life, there is a much greater joy for those in Christ.

We need to keep our heads up and our eyes wide open. Jesus is coming back. Our present circumstances? They are eased with our certainty of Christ’s sacrificial love. Eternal bliss will be yours. Love God with your whole heart and soul, and others as yourself.