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As a new mom, I can most assuredly say that childbirth was one of the most difficult things I have ever done. I'll spare you the details, but I was basically in labor for almost 5 days following a necessary early induction. I was receiving many encouraging texts from dear friends during this process and had the steady support of my husband who was beside me through it all. Childbirth is extremely difficult, but the pain and suffering is mitigated by the reminder of the end result. At the end of it all, you get to hold your precious child. The pain has a purpose and it is not in vain. The end result of the labor kept me going through it all as I looked forward to meeting my son. I had this great hope for what was on the other side of the pain. My baby.
In John 14, the disciples are distressed at the idea of Jesus leaving. In John 13, Jesus tells them of his imminent departure which is immediately met by questions from Peter. Seemingly to ease the disciples' fear, Jesus responds with a beautiful promise.
"Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also." (John 14:1-3)
Yes, Jesus was leaving, and it is true that the disciples would then endure much suffering for His name sake in the years to follow. However, that suffering would have a purpose, and it would not be the end of the story. No matter what this life brings, we can always be encouraged that it is not the end. On the other side of the suffering is the promise of heaven. This assurance can help us as we endure and live faithfully in the here and now. With the end in mind, we can continue faithfully even in the face of many challenges. It is all temporary, and after this life and all its trouble has come to pass, the promise of heaven is our reward because Jesus has prepared a place for us.
How can we remind ourselves that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us? The next time that you are setting the table for dinner for your family or for some guests, remember that just as you are preparing a place at the table for everyone, Jesus has gone to prepare a place for you in heaven.
I love hosting others for a meal. I love to try and make it special and show my guests that they are loved and welcomed. Now, as I reach for the "good plates" and set the silverware out or fold the napkins, I can meditate on the truth that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for me. He has gone to prepare a place for you.
He knows that you are coming. He awaits your arrival where He will welcome you with open arms because of His work on the cross which made a way for you. He has you in mind. He has prepared a place for you.
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