CONLEY COMMENTARY (WSAU) – What’s heaven like? Not only do I have no idea, it’s actually a quandary to me.
We’re told that heaven is paradise. And even that is incomprehensible.
The Bible tells us that heaven is where every tear is dried. Christ told us that heaven is like a mansion with many rooms, and that He goes ahead to prepare a place for us. And we are also told not to store up treasure on earth, where it can rust and be stolen, but store up treasure in heaven. And where your treasure is, so too is your heart. And we are told that he who loves his life shall lose it. That implies that heaven is vastly better than life here on Earth.
All of that is complicated for me. Why? Because I have a wonderful life here on earth. My complaints are few. I have a career that’s been fulfilling and gives me a great deal of satisfaction. I have a wonderful family; I love them dearly. I have friends and rewarding relationships. I have hobbies and interests that bring me joy. My human needs are met. There’s a roof over my head, food in my belly, and my bills are paid. I live a blessed life.
So what if the things I love are not a part of heaven? I’m guessing there’s no radio in heaven. The joy of getting good ratings – is probably non-existent. Is there baseball in heaven? Model trains? Is heaven a giant family reunion where I see my beloved grandparents again? Surely it’s more than that. I’m told that upon death I go to my eternal rest and my heavenly reward.
But I live a comfortable life. Heavenly rest certainly meant something different to people in Jesus’ time when life was much harder. My heavenly reward? I’ve been rewarded here on earth. And, while I’m not afraid of death, I don’t want to die. I have things to accomplish in my life, and my life is good.
I know that I am supposed to share my gifts with others; to live like a blessed person. But what lies beyond this for me? I don’t know. I can’t know. It is, indeed, the great unknown.
Chris Conley
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