Heavenly citizenship

"But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform the body of our humiliation that it may be conformed to the body of his glory, by the power that also enables him to make all things subject to himself." Philippians 3:20, 21

     While living in this world, we are to live as responsible citizens in whatever country we hold citizenship. The love of Christ is our motivation. But Christians are first and foremost citizens of heaven, where an eternal inheritance and heavenly home awaits each saint.

     Such faith powerfully sustains and equips the living and dying with courage and dignity. Please permit me to share a personal story. When my beloved mother died many years ago, her final words were unforgettable: "God is calling my name and I am not afraid." As my mother breathed her last, my elderly grandmother began singing through her tears: "When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be. When we all see Jesus, we'll sing and shout the victory."

     Those who place their faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, confidently expect to spend eternity in the presence of God, along with their loved ones in the Christian faith. This belief is a great comfort when facing death.

     Christians cherish this peculiar hope, living in anticipation and longing of the day when Jesus will return again to planet earth. When that great and wonderful day takes place, world history will be changed forever. At that time, the earthly bodies of those who have placed their faith in Christ as their Lord and Savior, will be miraculously transformed. Disease, sin, pain, decay and death will be unknown to these new glorified bodies and God will personally dwell in our midst.

     However you understand the Sacred, live with heaven on your mind for inspiration and solace, and you will find spiritual strength and courage for your life journey and circumstances.

     Prayer: God, I am deeply grateful for Your promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ, and the confidence of heavenly reunions with my loved ones. Thank you for heavenly and earthly citizenship. And please bless each reader with faith and inspiration, solace and courage. Amen.

Written by Rev. Dr. Sandy Bochonok
http://soulfoodministry.org
November 12, 2002
Permission is given to freely distribute this reflection throughout Zimbabwe.