Destination Heaven?

Four family members walked across the Canada-USA border, trapped in a snow blizzard, and froze to death. (Indian Express, 23 January 2022) They were near the dream land but could not reach their desired destination. There are many who perish drowning in oceans trying to cross the dreamland. Some are smuggled in containers across borders. There are numerous people who are distressed in their places where they are born. Sometimes, discontent with quality of life or economic upward mobility stunted and better options for their children. To reach those nations that are perceived as paradise, these people risk their lives. There are others who legally migrate but find the perceived paradise is another version of hell that they discarded.

Imaginations: People have dreams or imaginations about heaven. Seeking better options and more comfort is human nature. Heaven is a place where there are no tears, sickness, death, sorrow, pain; and peace, joy and love abound. Is there really heaven on earth?

Shattered dreams: Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and sons Chilion and Mahlon migrated from Israel to Moab to escape famine. Except Naomi all died in the better land. (Ruth 1:1-2) Lot migrated to greener pastures of Sodom and Gomorrah and it ended in disaster.

Living dreams: People of God continue to progress towards the Promised City, Heaven, New Jerusalem. With eyes of faith, they see, greet and embrace and declare themselves as strangers and exiles on earth. (Hebrews 11:13) For disciples, heaven is a place prepared by God Himself, with assured place for ever. (John 14:1) “But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.” (Hebrews 11:16)

Journey of faith: As in John Bunyan Pilgrim’s Progress, Christian life is a journey of faith toward the eternal city of Heaven. It begins at the Cross of Calvary. When a person realizes s/he is a sinner, repents and receives Lord Jesus as Savior, sins are forgiven, place in heaven assured.

Did I begin at the Cross for the journey to Heaven?