“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” — John 15:12
As I write this, I am in a hotel room with my wife and three amazing kids. It has become a summer tradition for my family (along with our extended family) to journey to Lake Powell for our annual “Croswhites Do Lake Powell” family reunion.
This time is a true highlight of my life. For nearly a week, my family descends upon Lake Powell for boating, exploring, cliff jumping, tubing, skiing, swimming, and also playing music.
As it stands, we stay in a basic hotel. Each morning, we launch our little boats and journey out for our next adventure. We fill our hours with tremendous experiences that begin bright and early in the morning and end well after 10:00 p.m.
I unquestionably love boating and exploring. However, this trip’s real joy for me is the time spent with my family. It’s hard to explain, but I think this joy comes from being known by them without explanation. Immediately, we sink into a rhythm without skipping a beat. All the while, we are laughing and joking. From then on, we play catch-up on life’s ups and downs and talk about our favorite music.
There is so much true enjoyment and love for one another among us. Our connection and affection grow with each moment spent together. So much so, in fact, I can’t help but wonder if this is a little glimpse of what heaven will be like.
A Glimpse of What’s To Come?
While together, it goes without contention that we serve and love one another. We also go out of our way to make sure others are encouraged. Our love for each other is not because we have to but because it gives us genuine delight. There is plenty of time to celebrate one another’s talents and contributions without jealousy or comparison. Indeed, there is vulnerability without fear of judgment. What comfort there is in the simplicity of the other’s presence.
Is this not a sliver of what heaven will be like? Together as a family, we are truly loved and delighted in by our Lord. And in His acceptance, we truly delight in one another. In heaven, we will be one family sharing authentic care for the other without fear of judgment or the pain of jealousy.
Christian, when we genuinely love one another, we mirror an eternal practice. When we delight in one another, we display the very bonds that Jesus established by calling us His children.
May there be true love for one another when we’re together. As we meet for our weekly “family reunion” (at church), let’s share in corporate worship and instruction. Let’s always seek to delight in one another.
Last night, 15 Croswhites sat in our hotel, playing music and singing songs. It had been an absolutely fantastic day on the lake. While some were jamming, others were simply catching up on life. You could tell this was attractive to some other hotel guests. So much so that soon, THEY were sitting in our group! Consequently, they heard our stories and enjoyed themselves as we simply loved one another.
Without a doubt, new friends and “family” will abound in our eternal home. This should bring you much joy. In the meantime, find a way to care for your “brother” and “sister.” Very possibly, you may find someone drawn to our Father because of your love.
With true affection,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor