Do Not Seek Your Heaven on Earth

This blog post could have easily been titled,

“Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?” 

Or,

“If Your God is So Good, Why Do <insert babies, spouses, parents, friends, etc.> Die?” 

I've heard both questions posed and as a Christian, I'm sure you have, too. A doctor one time looked at me, shrugged and said, sometimes bad things happen to good people. True, but not very reassuring.

Years ago at my Monday morning bible study, my friend told us she asked her husband why bad things happen to good people. His answer? Because we're not home yet. So much truth.

We were never promised an easy life as Christians. If you're living out your true God-given purpose, it might be the opposite of an easy life. We were promised eternity. If we believe in Jesus, we will see eternal life. Nowhere in the bible does it say if we believe in Jesus our life will be easy with no problems. If you see this in your bible, I'm afraid you have a counterfeit version. See your local pastor for confirmation and destruction.

Do not seek your heaven on earth.

You won't find it. Sure, you may have experiences that feel like heaven. For me, it's feeling the warm sun on my face. I could be on my deck, on a beach, outside of Trader Joes or even on the front steps of the courthouse getting ready for jury duty. When the heavens open up and the warm sun hits my face, every last worry I have disappears for that moment and I feel peace. That is the closest I feel to heaven. Bonus points if I can hear my husband and kids voices as this happens (happy voices not aimed at getting my attention of course).

What experiences do you have that feel like heaven?

It's one thing to feel the warmth of God's presence, it's another to be continually seeking heaven on earth. Instead, seek the heavenly kingdom of God. Live your life as if your number one goal is eternity because it should be. Earn your spot in heaven. Did Jesus die on the cross for the forgiveness of your sins? Yes. Most certainly. I'm a born people pleaser. I don't want to be handed this gift. I want to earn it. Okay, it's a nice safety net to know it's mine, but I don't want to stop at that.

If Jesus were to knock on your door today and ask how you are living your life to earn your spot in heaven, what would you say?

Knock, knock.

Jesus: "Neko, how are you living your life to earn your spot in heaven?"

Sidenote: I'm sure Jesus would word His question in a more eloquent way, but let's just go with it for simplicity sake.

Neko: "Life is good, often great. I felt your call, I heard it loud and clear. I've also felt your nudges loud and clear. I look forward to them and appreciate them. But I'm struggling to follow and have to continually redirect my life. I'm a work in progress. Because of the amazing gift you've given me, I've tried to live a life you would be proud of. And often times failed. Thank you for your constant forgiveness. You are the coolest. Can we take a selfie so I can post it on Instagram?"

Because if I met Jesus I'd have to be a little awkward, He is Jesus Christ, son of God. Let's be honest though, I still don't get the appeal of Instagram and am a horrible selfie taker - especially under pressure.

Your time on earth is precious, it is a gift. And your days are numbered. You will never find heaven on earth. But through Jesus, you will find heaven one day.

As Easter approaches, think about the gift you have been given. You do not deserve it. I do not deserve it. But it is free for all who want it. Show your appreciation to your Heavenly Father by accepting His gift and spreading the Good News.

Until Next Time,
Neko