Homepage Message: June 2007
I'm not a couch potato by any means. I would rather be doing something rather than sitting for an hour or two. However, there is one program I enjoy in addition to sports and news, and that is Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.
First of all I am absolutely amazed at how quickly a house—a large one at that—can be constructed in seven days. To top it off these homes generally have special features designed for the family's need, completely furnished and landscaped. Amazing organization and cooperation is needed.
Secondly, I think it is a tremendous act of love, compassion and grace. Every company and business who plays a part in this is doing the family and society a great service. How wonderful to aid in turning lives around and giving families a new lease on life.
Thirdly, it is exciting to see the expression and reaction of the family when they "MOVE THAT BUS" and look at their new home for the first time. Absolute amazement overwhelms them. Mouths drops open, some jump around while others fall to the ground in utter amazement. They are completely stunned at the beauty and generosity of a brand-new home. Worries and concerns that accompanied the old home are gone. Whatever the limitations or handicaps there were are eliminated. They can now start life all over again.
As I sat watching the family's reaction one evening and being happy for them, my mind moved the "camera of life" into fast forward. This gorgeous new home will eventually suffer the abuse of time and will need repairs, new paint and updated furnishings. The grass will need to be mowed, weeds pulled or sprayed, shrubbery pruned and beds mulched. Then I thought of what Jesus said:
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you." —John 14:2
As believers in Jesus Christ, we are sending "building material" ahead of us into heaven when we are engaged in doing good works for our savior. Perhaps some will have a house of brick, stone or wood, better yet from material unknown on earth ... who knows. What we do know is:
"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him." —I Corinthians 2:9
One day as a follower of Jesus Christ, you will be standing in the presence of God before your mansion viewing what God has prepared for you. I'm sure you will be speechless and overcome with amazing joy and gratitude. There your home will never grow old, wear out or need repair. It will be a home forever in the very presence of your Lord and Savior.
"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away." —Revelation 21:1
Do you have a home waiting for you in heaven built by the master builder himself? If you are not certain of your future home, find out today about having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ ...