RSVP!
Growing up I looked forward to visiting my grandparents. They were always happy to see me and when I walked into their home I instantly became hungry! Great food was associated with being there, but I never realized the time and effort that went on before my arrival.
Once I grew old enough to be of help I learned quickly about preparations. My mother liked to entertain and there were many gatherings that hours of effort and thought went into, thus making a good lesson about work and attention to detail.
Having family at my home is something I look forward to. I get excited to have everyone sharing time together, laughing, playing games. It really fills my heart. When planning for an event, I really try hard to make sure every detail is taken care of: fresh sheets on the beds, blankets available, plenty of food and toilet paper! Having everyone comfortable and happy makes me comfortable and happy. I want everyone to look forward to being in my home and want to stay!
I think about these times when I read. John 14: 2-3 KJV "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. (3) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." Many times as I've read this scripture, I would skim over it and move on. Lately, I've realized a more poignant message therein. As I ready myself and my home for Christmas, I cannot help but think of Jesus helping get Heaven ready for our eternity.
Looking forward to having those I love so dearly around me excites me! I get happy and it fuels my drive to be busy preparing for their arrival. I imagine Jesus orchestrating each detail of the golden pathways and jeweled embellishments of Heaven as He excitedly prepares for us.
When I shop for days worth of groceries to insure that no one goes hungry and has plenty of options for snacks and hearty meals, I think of Jesus stocking Heaven with all the things He knows we love.
I love having those I care about around me, and I long to be where He is: "...that where I am, there ye may be also." I can hardly wait!
While I fluff pillows and wash blankets I imagine Jesus preparing our Forever Home for us. And finally, once everything is ready, and I'm anxiously waiting for everyone to arrive; hoping they're all excited to be in my home and happy they didn't choose a different plan, I pray they get to my home safely...I think of Jesus patiently waiting on those that haven't RSVP'd yet...
Have you RSVP'd? Is Heaven waiting on you? Does God keep changing the time for Jesus to come and take us all home because He wants to make sure everyone has ample time to decide if they're going or not?
Jesus said He would come back for us. Vs 3. "...I will come again, and receive you unto myself..." Conceivably, much like Uber-is He waiting for your call to come? He's reserved time for you and each second you wait is costing you...it could cost you eternity. I've already taken my ride, paid in full by Jesus himself! I've RSVP'd and I'm just waiting for the day for Him to come for me...in the meantime, I'm trying my best to ready others for the big day!
Each day draws us closer to the last day. I don't know about you, but for me, each day goes faster and faster...so don't wait! RSVP for the big party! Places are not limited, but time is and if I could count the days I would. I'm excited, and a little apprehensive when I think of those I love that may not be coming.
~Joyful thoughts you give me Lord as I sing my praises to you this day. Thank you for love unimaginable that you bless me with so abundantly day by day. Please equip me to do your work as you continue to prepare our eternal home with you as our host. I look forward to laying my gift at your feet. The one you've given me to return to you...each day I want to adorn it more and more, even still, it will not be as grand as you deserve. Thank you for your promises. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.
