Sweet anticipation

TODAY’S BLOG IS DEDICATED TO CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF AL MAUER, an amazing Christian who loved Jesus and shared that joy and love with all those around him.  Though we will all miss him, he’s at home in heaven now!

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.

Philippians 1:21-24

For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

1 Cor 13:12

Every year, in the depths of winter, during January and February, I begin to think about my spring garden.  I think about what it will be like this year.  What seeds shall I grow?  What wonderful flowers shall I plant?  Which, if any, of my collected wildflower seeds may grow?  I think about the coming abundance of beautiful, colorful flowers on verdant green vines.  What wonderful things to look forward to, especially when the world can often be cold, the days are short, and darkness still falls early.  

Most often, I cling tightly to this life because of the people I love and the comfort of the familiar but, like the apostle Paul, there are days when I eagerly await the time of being with my Savior in heaven. Often, Easter is a wonderful time of reflection on heaven because the resurrection is life, not only for Jesus, but for me too because of Jesus’ love for me.  At other times, I remember a near death experience which absolutely changed my perspective and confirmed my faith with the peace that occurred.  So, I think about what heaven will be like…   Perfect peace and love.  Light and beauty beyond imagination in this life.  Joy unending.  Being wrapped in the arms of my Abba Father.  Sweet anticipation!