Heavenly Homecoming: Finding Comfort in the Promise of Eternity

In the real estate market, I am asked all the time by sellers to make sure my buyer’s have proof of funds or a pre-approval letter before they can see the home or put an offer on the property. This pre-approval letter gives recognition from a lender or bank that the buyer has the potential means to afford the home.

While this prerequisite is not mandatory, it is oftentimes enforced by agents who represent the seller. Without having this documentation, buyers can have a difficult time getting under contract and closing on their dream home.

Thankfully, in the spiritual world, God does not require that we have any proof of “righteousness” or letter showing all the “good” we have done in order to enter His heavenly home. In fact, the Bible tells us that all of us have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

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Therefore, the only prerequisite God requires of is to turn from sin and trust in Him for eternal life. The Bible says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, so that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life (Jn. 3:16).” When Jesus died on the cross, He not only suffered for our sins, but He also lived a perfect life. This “Great-Exchange” satisfied both the wrath of God and the righteousness required by a holy God–and it was freely imputed to all who trust in Jesus Christ.

For example, let’s say you are standing before the court. The jury peruses through all the evidence. They hear an audio recording when you lost your temper. A video is captured of you not honoring your mother and father. An acquaintance takes the stand and tells the jury how you were not always truthful. More and more evidence is piling up and the jury unanimously decides the verdict: “Guilty of breaking God’s Law.”

The judge comes before you–the defendant–to read your sentencing. Before the statement, “Eternal Separation from God” is uttered by the judge, a cry comes out from a distance. “I will stand in his place and take his punishment for him.” The judge is alarmed and asks, “Why would you, an innocent man, do such a thing?”

And the righteous Savior states: “When this man put his faith in me, He is no longer guilty of his many sins. He is free to go.” And what authority do you have, the judge says. And the bystander replies: “I am the King of kings and the Judge of Judges.” My authority overrules this council.

This is the good news of the Christian faith. We are not required to have a letter showing how many worship services we attended or how much money we have given to charity. There is no “proof of funds” necessary because money has no power over who is accepted or rejected. In fact, the Lord warns in Matthew 19:23-24: “Truly I tell you; it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God. Again, I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”

Furthermore, aren’t you glad that God doesn’t measure your value based on your credit history, employment records, how much assets you have, or the exact amount in your bank account? Instead, the Lord desires for all people to enter his heavenly home. 2 Peter 3:9 exclaims: “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

At this very moment, God is patient with us. Today is the day of repentance. You can ask Jesus into your heart now. If you want to do so, please repeat this prayer out loud:

“Dear Jesus, I confess my sin before you. Your word tells us that if we confess our sins, you are faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).” I believe your word and know that it’s by grace through faith I am saved. Your Son Jesus died for me, satisfying your justice. He also lived the perfect life and imputed the righteousness I need to gain access to heaven. I accept these truths today in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen!

Devotional written by Chad A. Damitz