We experienced a torrential downpour, and Bill was away from home. I definitely heard water pouring somewhere inside the house, but no faucets were turned on. Finally, I checked the basement. To my horror, the deep window well was flooded. Water surged out from the cement block wall. We had only lived in the house for a month.
The previous owner lied in his disclosure paperwork. The list of major repairs needed in our home expanded month after month. Thus began my addiction to home improvement shows in which contractors transform the fractured into beautiful dwellings. However, plumbing, electrical, wear and tear, and catastrophes are part of this broken planet. Even after the best home improvements, something eventually breaks yet again.
MY MASTER BUILDER
We need a better builder and architect. When Jesus said, “I am going away to make ready a place for you” (John 14:2-3), He was not referring to our home in Paradise, PA. The Master Carpenter and Creator of the Universe is at work this moment. Can you imagine me having this conversation:
“How did you find your new home’s architect and builder?”
“I found His name in an ancient book. He created the earth, the stars and galaxies, and everything that breathes. No need to check His references!”
NO FIXER-UPPERS IN HEAVEN
According to Revelation 21:1-8 (NET & AMP), Jesus’ work on our eternal homes is perfect. There are no “fixer-uppers” in Heaven. Not only will all things be fresh and original in the new heaven and earth, but they will permanently stay that way. Sin’s corruption, destruction, and decay will be nonexistent. I’ve never lived in a brand new house, let alone an eternal, perfect dwelling created by my Savior.
GOD HIMSELF WILL DWELL WITH US
Read about the neighborhood for these dwellings. “Look! The residence of God is among human beings. He will live among them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them. I cannot fathom such a place. And God’s plan is for me and all His children to live with Him? There won’t even be a housing shortage. Jesus designs everything perfectly!
A PLACE OVERFLOWING WITH JOY
Can you imagine the atmosphere in this new locale? It constantly overflows with joy. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death will not exist any more—or mourning, or crying, or pain, for the former things have ceased to exist.”
God desires above all to live among His people. God dwells permanently in the neighborhood! Even on my best day, people get tired of me (and rightly so). Yet God, Almighty God, desires to live in the midst of all his redeemed children. We won’t be broken anymore! No longer will sin follow us around like a ball and chain. We will be eternally free!
NO MORTGAGES IN HEAVEN
What is the cost of this new home? It is paid in full by the blood of Christ. I inherit my home from my Heavenly Father. “The one who conquers will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son. What is the alternative dwelling place for those who reject His gift? “The lake that burns with fire and sulfur.”
YOUR INVITATION
Do you long to dwell with God? Are you tired of the brokenness of this world? Take heart, God has made His perfect plan. He has paid the price, there is no mortgage, and the invitation is open. Come to Him humbly, admit there is no way you can save yourself, and make Him your Lord and Savior. God wants you to dwell with Him where nothing ever breaks again.
Click to read more about the New Heaven and the New Earth