Longing for Heaven

For most of my teen years I had a death wish. Having heard the promises of heaven, and thinking myself saved, death seemed to be better than the normal teen angst. I confess that knowing I am saved has not eradicated this longing for death. It has, however, dramatically changed my motivation. Let me illustrate with a parable. Heaven is like an In-N-Out Burger and life is like everything else leading up to an In-N-Out Burger. The In-N-Out experience, like the Christian life, starts in the parking lot, with the fragrance that permeates the air, drawing me closer, creating a desire for what is good and right. Then I cross the lot to the doors of the kingdom of fresh ground beef, grilled to perfection. Entering I realize the fragrance outside was merely a shadow of what was to come. The smell of Double Doubles grilling, permeate the air. This, yes, this is my life in the Kingdom. My life in Christ as currently realized. Many are the joys here, the wife and kids, a job and friends. And most of all, thick with the presence of Christ. The friendly face in the red apron has taken my order, the bill paid, is certain that this joy is mine. As soon as my number is up.