Do you remember the old Beatles’ song with the lyrics “Imagine there’s no heaven”? Why would anyone want to, considering the current state of our world?
Imagine if the opposite is true. What is heaven like? As followers of Jesus, we believe in a real heaven and our imagination can help us visualize it.
The original meaning of the word “thoughts” in Isaiah 26:3 means imagination. Even though God has equipped us with an incredible imagination, the Bible says that our eyes have not seen anything like what God is preparing for us nor have our ears ever heard of such wonders (I Corinthians 2:9).
But we can get an idea of what heaven is like. Biblical verses give us some details about the realities of this eternal magnificence. Start with Revelation 21.
Even better is the fact that we can experience a bit of heaven here on earth by asking Jesus to be in our lives and change our focus. How might the practice of receiving Jesus’ love right now help us feel joyful despite what’s happening around us? How might it compel us to give ourselves to others in healthy ways as we await what lies ahead? How would His acceptance transform the compulsion to compare ourselves to others into a peace-filled selflessness?
Today, purposefully probe the place being prepared for you in heaven and let your thoughts bring you joy.
Our great eternal God, please grant us baptized imaginations. Help us to remember that this life is not all there is. Something far more glorious and wonderful is up ahead for those who believe in you. We’ll be filled with unimaginable joy as you welcome us to our true home. Please give us endurance to face this life, as Jesus did when He endured the cross, imagining the joy that lies ahead. Amen.
Go Deeper — The great Christian thinker, C.S. Lewis, said, “Joy is the serious business of heaven. There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” Read Hebrews 11:16 and 12:1-3. Joyfully imagine what it will be like in heaven and then share it with others.
Photo Credit: Toa Heftiba