Daily devotion – 24 hours closer to …..
Revelation 21:4-5 gives us one of the most beautiful promises in Scripture: a future where God Himself will wipe away every tear, where there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain. These words remind us that our present suffering is temporary, and a day is coming when all the effects of sin and brokenness will be no more.
Today, my heart was burdened as I was in contact with four different people battling various illnesses, each struggling with pain and discomfort. And this Friday, I will have the honor of speaking at the funeral of a young pastor who has gone to be with the Lord, having completed the mission God gave him. These moments bring to mind both the power of God and the brokenness of this world.
We have a great hope in prayer. James 5:14-15 reminds us of the call to seek healing through prayer: “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up.” I have seen and experienced the power of God to heal, and I know the truth of these words. Yet, like many of you, I also long for the day when we will no longer have to battle illness, pain, and death—when all things will be made new.
God’s original creation was perfect, without sorrow, sickness, or suffering. But sin entered through Adam and Eve, and with it came the curse that brought death and all the pain we experience in this life. Even so, we thank God for His comfort today, and we rejoice in answered prayers. Yet, our hearts yearn for the day when we will be free from these mortal bodies, clothed with immortality, and fully in the presence of our Savior.
The apostle Paul expressed this yearning so well in Philippians 1:23 when he said, “I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.” To be with Christ is our ultimate joy and destination. But Paul also knew that as long as we are here, God has a mission for us. “Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you.” (Philippians 1:24)
While we long for Heaven, we recognize that God still has work for us to do here. Each day we are given is another day to fulfill the call He has placed on our lives—to love, serve, and minister to those around us: our families, friends, co-workers, classmates, neighbors, and even strangers whom the Lord places in our path.
So, as we move forward, let us embrace both realities: the joy of knowing that we are one day, 24 hours closer to Heaven, and the responsibility of making each day count for the Kingdom of God. We are still here because God has a purpose for us, and He desires to use us to reach others with His love and truth.
I can’t wait for tomorrow to come—both for the joy of eternity and for the opportunities we have today to live out the mission God has given us. Let us seize each moment with anticipation and purpose.
24 hours closer!