What the evangelist said shocked many in his audience: "Heaven is my home, but I'm not homesick." He wasn't downplaying the anticipation we should have for heaven. He was reflecting the truth that our heavenly Father wants us to enjoy with gratitude the good things He has provided for us in this world. This old Jewish proverb reinforces the idea: "In the judgment, a man will be held accountable for every blessing he refused to enjoy."

For those who are near the end of life, are lonely or depressed, or whose bodies are weak and disease-ravaged, it is understandable that they long for the indescribable blessings of the land of no more heartache, pain, and tears. But as Christians, we certainly must not disregard the daily mercies and the rich bounties our Father gives to us. The Bible says that God "gives us richly all things to enjoy" (1 Tim. 6:17). His goodness is shown to all mankind in "rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness" (Acts 14:17). In other words, all of us, even non-Christians, are able to enjoy much of life's goodness.

Yes, heaven awaits us, but God wants us to be glad and enjoy all His goodness as we journey homeward.  — Vernon C. Grounds