John 14:2 – In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. (NIV)

Since I have moved into a new facility where my needs are met, I am frequently asked how I am enjoying my new home.

It has caused me to think about what is required for a "home". Firstly, there is a physical structure. Unfortunately, some people who live on the street or whose home has just burnt down are described as "homeless". It is very sad.

Although I am living in a lovely physical structure, by far the most important aspect of a home is the people. I was blessed throughout my life by the people around me. But my biggest surprise since moving in to my new home is the quality of the people. The staff range, without exception, from good to outstanding. They are always pleasant and helpful. I sometimes think that they are doing their jobs because they want to, and not just because they are being paid. This leads to a happy atmosphere among the residents.

In turn, this makes me realize that it is important for me also to be pleasant, kind, and helpful, and always to choose to be positive and show the love of Jesus to others. We all have varying degrees of aches and pains — much about which to complain — but the positive atmosphere here makes my new home a pleasant one.

The challenge for me and you is to relate to the people in our lives, particularly in our homes, in a helpful, loving way. God demonstrated the ultimate gift of love by giving us His Son, Jesus, who taught us that in turn, we should share His love with others.

This world is not my home
I'm just a-passing through
My treasures are laid up
Somewhere beyond the blue

Oh Lord, you know
I have no friend like you
If heaven's not my home
Then Lord what will I do

The angels beckon me
From heaven's open door
And I can't feel at home
In this world anymore
       – Jim Reeves

This brings me back to today's Scripture verse. I eagerly look forward to my best home ever, where Jesus has invited us to live with Him.

I am laying claim to one of the rooms in His mansion!

Prayer: Dear Father, we can't thank You enough for all the blessings that You give us here on earth. But mostly, we want to thank You for Your Son Jesus, who has opened the way so that by belief in His sacrifice, we can have the hope that one day, we will be at home with You. In His name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Vincent Walter <vwalter@bell.net>
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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