Heaven Series #6
Will I recognize my loved ones in heaven?
Yes, and better yet, they will recognize you and so will many others. In 2 Peter 1:11, the scripture speaks of true believers receiving a “rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ”. Other versions describe it as a “grand entrance” or a “lavish reception”.
Some of you may remember the Christian song, “Thank you for giving to the Lord”, by Ray Boltz, about a man who, when he gets to heaven, sees a multitude of people before him and is told that these are the people that his life impacted on earth. He had no idea that it would be so many.
Although nothing is remotely as credible as God’s own word, there have been numerous accounts of individuals who after suffering an automobile crash or complications during a surgery, or the like, will tell of going to heaven or paradise and being greeted by their loved ones upon arrival. Even Paul the apostle had a vision of heaven at one point and saw things that he could not express.
At the mount of transfiguration in Mat. 17, you’ll remember Moses and Elijah were seen standing on either side of Jesus. Peter, James and John had obviously never seen the patriarchs before, but recognized them. Some have suggested, that as one of the features of our new heavenly bodies, we will have the innate ability to recognize anyone and everyone. 1 Cor. 13:12 states, “Then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.” In reality, there are many things that will remain mysteries to us until we get there, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t seek out all we can know from the word and through the Holy Spirit. Again, Col. 3:1, clearly states… “SEEK those things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God”. As I shared in a previous post, the Holy Spirit does at times reveal to us insights into our future home and eternity. I am confident that this is to give us HOPE, strengthen our FAITH and build COURAGE in us here… so that each of us may finish well… and receive the promised “rich welcome” at the gates of pearl.
Blessings, Mike
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