Because my daughter is a flight attendant, I am blessed with a parent's pass for my personal use. For a small service charge, I may fly wherever the airline flies. There's one drawback, however. I must be on "standby." That means I'm allowed on board only if there's space available. Until then, my luggage is set aside and labeled "Status Pending." While the paying passengers board, I must wait, wondering if my name will be called. I can never be certain of a seat because available space isn't guaranteed.

It's a far different situation on our journey to heaven, which begins when we trust Christ for our salvation. Because of His death and resurrection, our passage to heaven is absolutely guaranteed. Our status is not pending; there is space available; our names will be called. These priceless privileges have been paid for in full by the sacrificial death of Jesus.

If, like Thomas in John 14:5, you sometimes wonder if and how Jesus will get you to heaven, trust in His promise, "I go to prepare a place for you. . . . And I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also" (vv.2-3). That's His unfailing word. You can count on it!    — Joanie Yoder