We Do Not Belong – October 21, 2020

Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 3:20

We Do Not Belong

Growing up I had a neighbor who was from Uruguay who was living in the United States on a temporary work visa. He was a friendly guy who always said “hello” to the neighborhood kids. His English was good, but you could tell from his accent that the United States was not his home. Sometimes he would give us snacks and candies with names we didn’t know, and he would watch our faces with delight as he shared with us these reminders of his home. One time, his garage door was open, and we could see boxes and storage containers stacked against the wall. Being curious kids, we asked him what was in all those boxes. He told us they were things that he didn’t bother to unpack since he would be going back to his home in Uruguay soon.

Like my childhood neighbor, Christians know that they are temporary residents—not of the United States, but of this world. And, like my neighbor, they can be recognized as being different from the people of this world. For example, they don’t talk the same way the world talks. At least, that is their goal. They want their conversations to be kind, gentle, and understanding. They want to speak of forgiveness and sacrifice. They want to talk about the hope they have.

And, like my neighbor, as Christians live in this world, they look for reminders of their true home. It is why they worship with other Christians and why they read and study the Bible.

When you find yourself frustrated with this world, know that Jesus has won an eternal life in heaven for you. Through faith in him, you can know that this world is only temporary. And you can look forward to a permanent residence in paradise.

Prayer:
Do not allow me to be distracted by the things of this world, lest I fail to wait with eagerness for Jesus to return. Come quickly, Lord Jesus, and take me to my true home. Amen.