“‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:4-5

‘HOOOOOOT! HOOOT HOOOT!’ After that announcement, the big ship pushed off the dock and out to sea. With it, went every personal, priceless and precious piece of Earthly cargo that I love… my family! As the music blared, the tune hinted us onward with the promise of upcoming family fun, joy and togetherness. Standing on the top deck, we watched in amazement as land disappeared.

All 20 of our family had been looking forward to this journey. Having been unable to get together for our annual McChristmas celebration, Katie and I dipped into the retirement fund and announced plans for a springtime ‘McCruise’! A splurge of family fun that would be well remembered forever. A favorite line to my grand-kids was, “you look like you’re miserable.” ”No WAY,” came the reply!

We ate. We played. We danced and ‘hung out’ together as a family for 4 days! And not one of our kids… original, in-lawed or grand, had a bad time. “Thank you”, though not looked for, came anyway. Time proved that ‘McCruise’ was something so outrageously joyful, that it just naturally evoked the response. Every need, care and desire was met on that ship, with the promise of even MORE!

When the ship HOOOOTED it’s departure to return home, I looked around and thought of only 1 thing. ‘Jesus!’ All the time, work, hardships, difficulties and responsibilities that come with being a Child of Most High God, living far from home, took on the perfect picture of what to look forward to when Jesus returns, or I die and move to my Heavenly Home. The only thing I can say is… THANK YOU, Jesus!”

Are YOU headed to Heaven? Are you living now AND looking forward… trying to please Jesus in your relationship, just as though your ticket there depends upon your response to His Love here? Because… it does!