And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. – John 14:3
Every year, my family goes to the annual camp meeting in Portland, Oregon, and I have gained a reputation for preparing our suitcases several weeks ahead. About a week or two before we go, my husband often starts getting frustrated because he cannot find items that are usually in the bathroom or closet. You may be wondering, Why does she pack so early? It is because I am so excited to go! All my attention becomes focused on being prepared for camp. I keep lists everywhere so I do not forget one thing, and I can hardly think of anything else.
There is something else I am excited for—the return of my Savior. Jesus is preparing a place for His Church, and it will be perfectly planned. Not a thing will be left undone. The Bible says it will be more than we can even imagine. However, there is also a part for us in this. As Jesus makes ready our home in Heaven, we must prepare our hearts. We have to know that our sins have been forgiven and that our relationship with Him is as real today as it was the day we were saved. If we are careful to make those preparations, we will be able to go with Jesus when He comes, and enjoy the blessings of Heaven for eternity.
It is fairly easy to be ready for camp meeting because I know when it will start and when my family must leave town. On the other hand, Matthew 25:13 tells us, “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.” Because we do not know when Jesus will return, we must always be ready. We need to walk daily with the Lord, watching and waiting for His coming.
Every year, I get excited to be going to camp, but I am more excited about going to Heaven. I want to be well-prepared when it is time to go!