For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
John 3:16-17
I’m sitting remembering what my daughter, Hope, shared with me about a place she visited in Oregon. She’d come around a turn on a path and suddenly saw a beautiful garden that reminded her of what she’d read in the “Chronicles of Narnia” books. For just a moment, she wondered if she’d actually died and arrived in Heaven. It was one of those surrealistic moments. As she related this story to me, I could really sense what she’d experienced and felt Heaven tugging on my own heart. =)
For to me (The apostle Paul) to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Philippians 1:21 ESV
The longer I live, the more I realize that living for and getting to know more about Jesus is all that matters…
Annie and I had a really nice visit with our dear friend Grace (we think of Grace as one of our daughters) a few weeks ago. Grace told us the wonderful, following story. I asked her if she would write it down so I could share it with all of you. What a blessed event it was…
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“Hi Mark!
Here is the story my father in law shared with me about grandpa’s passing from this life to heaven!!!
“I had just finished reading a booklet hospice had given us about the final stages and breaths of life. Just as I had finished reading and placed the booklet on the coffee table in front of me, I heard grandpa’s breathing start to change. His mouth clenched shut and the breaths became fewer. I called everyone into the family room where his hospital bed lay. As everyone entered the room, we all began singing grandpa”s favorite hymns. As we were into our 2nd or 3rd hymn, grandpa took his last breath. Grandma started dancing around with joy, shouting, “He’s home!!!! He”s with Jesus!!!!!” Grandpa went home to meet his Heavenly Father with his wife of 54 years and all 3 of his children by his side, singing songs of praise!”
This story brings such joy to my heart. What a beautiful way to leave this earthly life to eternity with God!!! Grandpa Craker was able to see all of his children, their spouses and most of his grandkids live lives for Christ!!!!!!
I love you and miss you both!!!
Grace”
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Yes, furthermore, I (the apostle Paul) count everything as loss compared to the possession of the priceless privilege (the overwhelming preciousness, the surpassing worth, and supreme advantage) of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord and of progressively becoming more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him [of perceiving and recognizing and understanding Him more fully and clearly]. For His sake I have lost everything and consider it all to be mere rubbish (refuse, dregs), in order that I may win (gain) Christ (the Anointed One),
Philippians 3:8 AMPC
This life is all about Jesus and Heaven, precious people. We’ll be happiest and more fulfilled living this life for Christ and sharing His love, mercy, forgiveness, peace and rest with everyone God sends our way. =)
For God so loved the world…
And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.
Revelation 5:13
Have a nice weekend and remember to take time to dwell on Heaven.
God bless,
Mark