Matthew 28:20b – And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. (ESV)

Today, when Caroline renewed her driving licence online, it reminded me of the time 51 years ago when I received my provisional driving licence. I learnt how to drive, and then I passed my test on October 3rd, 1973.

Today's event also reminded me of the 52 years since I became a Christian, saved by grace through asking Jesus into my life.

As a teenager, heaven seemed on a far distant horizon, or at least its entry was an open-ended question. Now, heaven and God have become an ever-approaching reality, rather than a speck in the distance. I ask how we, who are walking the tightrope of linear time, can comprehend an eternity with a God Who is genuine and not a fable. What sort of house will we have? Can we have a pet? Who will mow the lawn? Will there be a lawn with our house in heaven? Will my house just be a shed with the dog?

The more I have walked with Jesus over the years, I find that the answers to these questions about how I will fit in heaven are truly beyond my comprehension and frankly irrelevant. In the Bible, we see that existence with Jesus will be different: free from sin, shame, and sorrow, with an unlimited intimacy in the presence of God.

Then, I had no idea of how to combine thoughts of the Father as a holy, awesome, creator God, with Jesus as my personal Saviour and companion in life. How can the two be combined? But isn't that what Jesus shows us through His incarnation? The Holy Spirit is there with Jesus encouraging us not to settle for less than He is willing to give.

When I passed the driving test 51 years ago, I gained the knowledge of how to become a careful driver, not just as a learner. I would like to say I was a vigilant driver, but that would be stretching the truth a little, now less so.

Fifty-two years ago, I held out my hand to Jesus and gave to Him what I could. In return, He disclosed to me that I passed into membership in the kingdom of God. I would like to say I became a vigilant member of the Christian community, but that would be stretching the truth, too. Despite a shaky start, over time, we learn.

I believe Jesus will take what we can honestly give and then encourage us to get up and follow Him. Let's do that!

John 15:5 – I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. (ESV)

Prayer: Lord, apart from You we can do nothing of worth. Teach us that we may learn what it means to be a part of Your kingdom. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Rod Marshall <roderickhenrymarshall@gmail.com>
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England
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