Heaven! Think of the Possibilities...
A Reflection on Christian Unity
When I woke up this morning, my mind was filled with thoughts about the many broken friendships and relationships among Christians. I found myself praying for healing and restoration, committing everything into the Lord’s capable and restoring hands. My prayer was simple: Lord, heal, restore, and unite Your Church.
I was reminded of Jesus’ prayer for His disciples—and for the Church—just before His crucifixion:
John 17:11 (NKJV)
“Now I am no longer in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are.”
As I reflected, a question rose in my heart: In heaven, how will all the Christians who have fallen out with one another here on earth get along?
Immediately, I sensed the Holy Spirit whisper, “They will all live together in heaven.”
In heaven, there is no hatred, envy, jealousy, competition, or strife.
Because we are candidates for heaven, it is important that we learn to get along here on earth. The person you resent, dislike, or feel angry toward may very well be your neighbor in heaven. And in heaven, you cannot choose whom to love—you will love everyone.
Each of us is unique. Even identical twins have different personalities, preferences, and temperaments. This is why patience and kindness are essential. As believers, our focus must remain on what unites us: Jesus Christ—our Lord, our Savior, the One who died and rose again for our justification, the One who took away our sins and the sins of the whole world.
Putting Unity Into Practice
I felt led to put this reflection into practice, so I decided to visit St. Matthew’s Church. The sermon centered on Mary and Martha—how Martha, though passionate about serving, sometimes grew frustrated with Mary for not helping her.
The service was quieter than what you might experience in a Pentecostal or Charismatic church, yet the people were warm, welcoming, friendly, joyful, and full of life.
I went without prejudice, assumptions, or expectations. As I approached the entrance, I whispered to the Lord, “I am glad to be in Your presence and to worship among Your saints. I surrender myself to You, Jesus.”
That simple act of trust and surrender changed everything. I found myself enjoying the worship, the people, the sermon—everything. Jesus was clearly the center of the service and the heart of the church.
Heaven’s Reality
When we get to heaven, I do not believe there will be walls separating denominations. There will be:
One body of believers
One Lord Jesus
One God the Father
One Holy Spirit
One body of Christ
If heaven is truly the place you desire to spend eternity with God, then begin practicing the love walk now. Remove criticism and judgment toward other Christians. Judge no one. Walk in love.
Jesus said plainly:
Luke 6:35–37 (NKJV)
35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil.
36 Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.
37 Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Written by - Paula Simeon
Date: 7/21/2013
