In a Facebook post, a Christian writer, speaking of Anna’s reaction to seeing the baby Jesus, included this statement, “For that day that we all so long for is surely coming.” My immediate response was to question whether that statement was true for me.
It is not that I do not want to go to heaven. Who wouldn’t, as we consider all that is going on in the world today? No, it is the timing that makes me question that statement because of the phrase, “we all so long for.” Even at my advanced age, I still have a lot to look forward to. The coming, the writer refers to, is probably the return of the Lord Jesus Christ to take Christians to be in heaven with Him, but this may be preceded by death. Either way, what are the reasons that I hesitate? Some may seem more important than others, but to name a few – family and friends who do not (yet) share the same relationship with God; continuing to care for a loved one who has difficulty dealing with modern communications, including access to finance and some regular home responsibilities; plans already made for projects to be implemented in the New Year.
Of course, none of us is indispensable, and I am frequently reminded of what was referred to as my new manager’s “Noddy talk” as I was travelling daily to my new place of employment. His comment was, “Be careful how you drive home, because if you are killed, you will be replaced the next day and forgotten the day after.” Somewhat humbling, even if true. However, even as I type these words, I am reminded of the attitude of Jesus as recorded by Luke in chapter 22, verse 42. Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
As has been said before, the secret of successful prayer is submission. A lesson I have not only learned by experience but also need reminding about.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, perhaps it is natural to have much that we want to do before we meet you, rather than because we cannot face the future any longer. Whatever our reasons, please help us to submit to Your will – willingly. AMEN.