When a travel show visited London, England, the host said, “I have always wanted to visit London because all of my favourite stories are based here. Stories like Mary Poppins and A Christmas Carol. When you get here it feels strangely familiar. You feel comfortable and at home because this is where our stories are”.
What stories do we tell? What do we focus on? What makes us feel safe, comfortable, and at home?
More importantly, what stories did Jesus tell? Here is one of his favourite themes: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going” (John 14:1-4).
Stories shape and direct our lives. Therefore, Jesus told stories about heaven. He wanted us to think about something beyond this life and to value things that would last through eternity.
The North American church has turned faith into a way to get what you want. We tend to act as if God should make our lives easy and joy filled. However, when one reads the Bible, it is obvious that there are no guarantees in this life. Over the centuries, God’s people have had a range of experiences. Some were rich and some were poor. Some had security and others were constantly on the run. Sometimes God’s people rejoiced and other times they lamented. It seems that God is more concerned about getting his people ready for their new home than he is about their happiness here.
Heaven is not the consolation prize that you receive when this life ends. Rather, heaven is the focus of faith.
If you look down on Estevan’s water tower from the air, you will see a big arrow that points towards the airport. It is there so that if a pilot is confused, or lost, he can find his way home.
Christians need to be telling stories that point others towards home, as well.
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