"But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." -- Philippians 3:20
Back in 1962, country singer Jim Reeves recorded a rendition of the old hymn This World is Not My Home. I remember hearing it on the radio at the time, and while I thought it was a nice song, the lyrics didn't hold a lot of meaning for me. At twelve years of age, Heaven seemed ages away and there was still a lot to experience here on earth. Such was the thinking of a young girl who didn't yet know the Lord.
Many years (more like decades) have passed since then and I now think a lot about my true Home. I've never felt more homesick than I do now. Having a personal relationship with Jesus will do that to you; especially when you look around at the world today and realize how sinful and corrupt it is. I know God is in control, and I've placed my trust in my Savior to see me through whatever comes here on earth, but I still long to leave this place and be in the presence of the One who gave His life to save me (and you!). Sometimes it brings tears to my eyes to think about it. I'm just that homesick.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 reminds us that God has set eternity in our hearts. Here's what Gotquestions.org has to say about this:
"Seasons come and go, but does anything in this life truly satisfy? The answer in Ecclesiastes is, no, all is vanity (Ecclesiastes 1:2). However, through all the ups and downs and vicissitudes of life, we have a glimpse of stability—God has 'set eternity in the human heart.' Life is but a vapor (James 4:14), but we know there is something past this life. We have a divinely implanted awareness that the soul lives forever. This world is not our home."
Chris Tomlin's music video Home has become one of my favorites. I'm sharing it with you today, and I hope it will encourage you as much as it has encouraged me.
It's almost time to go I think.
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree, Sandi.
DeleteVery nice post Nancy. Can I ask you to please say a prayer for me this week. Terry and I are making a big life decision and it has been heart wrenching. I need prayers for peace in my heart. xoxo Kris
ReplyDeleteIt's an honor and privilege to pray for you, Kris. I'll be doing just that! xo
DeleteGood to read your Monday morning encouragement. Hoping to hear that trumpet call!!
ReplyDeleteAmen, Ellen!
DeleteThis world is not my home means much more to me now than it did when I was younger. I agree, the time is close.
ReplyDeleteI remember when my mom was very ill, she told me that she just kept thinking of heaven. I know she is there. We have HOPE.
ReplyDeleteI agree that the time is not far off. I just read an article today about the temple rebuilding in Jerusalem. Come Lord Jesus. I'm so ready to go home. "This World Is Not My Home" has been one of my favorite songs for years.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Betsy
My mom and dad and I used to sing 'This World Is Not My Home' in three-part harmony when I was young. I was so short my dad had to put a wooden box behind the big pulpit so I could be seen over it. My dear mom often said she felt she didn't 'fit' in this world anymore during the last years of her life. I'm feeling that, too. I'm looking forward to my Heavenly home!
ReplyDelete~Adrienne~