All Things New预览

Heaven Is a Place on Earth

Anybody who’s ridden a motorbike down California State Route 1 will tell you that this world is sweet—not perfect, but sweet. It seems like a shame to leave the pleasures of this world behind.

We talk about going to Heaven one day, and it’s true: everyone who’s been saved by Jesus will go to be with Him when we die (2 Corinthians 5:8).

But Heaven actually isn’t our final destination. One day, our bodies will be resurrected (1 Corinthians 15), and then we’ll live on the new earth, not in Heaven.

“We will not remain forever with God in heaven, for God will bring heaven down to us,” explains theologian Mike Wittmer. “We don’t hope merely for the day when we go to live with God, but ultimately for that final day when God comes to live with us.” [1]

When you think of Heaven, don’t think about clouds or living in the sky somewhere. Think about California State Route 1, except even better. Heaven will come to earth.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the perfected world we’ll get to enjoy one day. Amen.

Reflection: How do you think the new earth will be different from our current world?

[1] Wittmer, Michael E. Heaven is a Place on Earth: Why Everything You Do Matters To God. (p. 17). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.