Devotions

WHERE DO YOU CALL HOME?
“But our citizenship is in heaven.” Philippians 3:20, NIV.
When people ask me where I was born, I proudly tell them, Virginia. Something about our rich American heritage that began in places like Jamestown and Williamsburg adds depth to how far we have come in such a short amount of time. Compared to Europe and other foreign countries with histories as far back as thousands of years, America is like a fledgling.
Over the past month, four people I know and have called my friends have passed away; some have struggled with long illnesses, while a couple of them died unexpectedly. The older I become, the more I realize how many loved ones are no longer in this world. Along with my husband, Richard, my parents, grandparents, and numerous other family and friends are now in heaven. How I look at death and eternal life has shifted greatly from my view when I was younger.
When my grandfather died in 1982, my relationship with Jesus was sketchy at best. I went to church regularly and was involved with leading the youth choir each Sunday; but I lacked the personal relationship with Jesus that didn’t exist until the following year. When I discovered that my grandmother didn’t have the finances to provide a vault for my grandfather’s casket, my fear of death became glaringly real and obvious! I called Richard and asked if we could make the vault available, and of course, he lovingly agreed. I’ll never forget my relief and then, the conversation I had with my Uncle J., who said, “sweetheart, you know grandpa is not in the casket,” which was not so much a statement as a question. The vault was added but I have never forgotten my uncle’s question.
The following year after our move to Richmond, a friend invited me to a Bible study; it was at the very first gathering that God opened my eyes to the reality of Jesus as my Savior. Friend, while I will always miss my loved ones, especially the love of my life, Richard while I am on this side of heaven, knowing that one day I will join them brings great comfort instead of fear and dread. Like a stage where the actors enter, say their lines and then exit, you and I are on the “stage” of this world for only a while. When we exit, how wonderful knowing that eternity is only the beginning.
When someone asks me in the future where I live, I will say Virginia; when they ask me where I call “home,” I will say, heaven!
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Sweet Sherry,
Your words about Home really speak to me. Thank you and Gob Bless you for sharing
In friendship and His love, cheryl
God bless you, Cheryl, especially at this special time of celebrating the Lord’s resurrection.