Time for Grace-March 18, 2024

Time for Grace-March 18, 2024

Hebrews 13:14

For we do not have a permanent city here, but we are looking for the city that is coming.

Dear Heavenly Father,

The writer of Hebrews reminded us of the time when the Hebrews wandered in the wilderness and used the Tabernacle to offer sacrifices. They did not have permanent cities or homes but lived in tents. However, even after they had made their way to Jerusalem and built houses, those were not permanent either. Over the centuries, they had been taken into captivity, and the city and temple destroyed.

We might also think our cities are permanent because we have lived in them for a few or many years. But our permanent city is in heaven. Jesus told his disciples he would prepare that place for them (and it is also for us) and return so they would be with Him in their permanent heavenly homes. Our permanent homes come to us by faith in Your Son, our Savior; they are in Your permanent heavenly city.

The writer of Hebrews wrote these words about a permanent city because access to that city comes to all only through repentance and forgiveness. It was not the blood of sheep and goats that saved the people, but the blood of Your Son poured out on the cross that washed away all our sins.

By faith in our Savior and what He has done, we know our sins are completely forgiven. We hold on to our Savior, knowing and believing He has established our permanent lodging in heaven.

As we live in this world with all its wars, rumors of wars, disease, and death, let us look with anticipation to being home with You and away from this wilderness. Allow us to share our permanent homes with someone who does not know You; send us Your Holy Spirit to encourage us and share the good news of Your love and forgiveness. Help us overcome our fears and share this good news about our permanent home with others. Amen

Written through Pastor Roger Emmons

By faith in Jesus, you are already a resident of that permanent holy home. Why worry about the world? Let the world care for itself because your permanent home is in God’s heavenly city.