Our Heavenly Home

Hebrews 11:16a– But the truth is that they were yearning for and aspiring to a better and more desirable country, that is, a heavenly [one] (AMP).                                                                                                                                                                                                 

The local TV morning show recently asked for the definition of a Canadian. The winner coined this phrase. “A Canadian is an immigrant with authority!” Most Canadians come from somewhere else. In fact, my immigrating Icelandic ancestors gave me the opportunity to be born Canadian.

On July 1, our national holiday, many immigrants choose to officially become Canadians, just as my great-grandparents did. In my community, we celebrate Canada Day in a big way because we’re so grateful to live here. Red and white flags festoon the community. We cheer as our veterans march by in the parade. We applaud floats and clowns. We eat, play games, and call the day to a close with a concert and a dance.

We’re all justly proud of our nationalities and countries, but let’s not get side tracked. If we know Jesus as our personal Savior, no earthly country is our home. God has a much better place in store for us.

Hebrews 11:16b–Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; indeed, he has prepared a city for them (NRSV).

Prayer: Father, thanks for our birth country, its culture and all it stands for, but keep us mindful that it’s not our final resting place. Help us live as the future citizens of heaven that we are. Amen.