No place that far

“Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me (John 14:1-3).” In the last days prior to his crucifixion, Jesus comforted his troubled disciples with this wonderful promise. Not anxious to see him leave and having accepted his invitation to “follow me,” the disciples had spent the three years of Christ’s earthly ministry by his side, taking in his teachings, witnessing miracles and learning by his compassionate example how to love one another (1 Peter 3:8). Putting others first is not an instinctive human quality, but serving those in need does yield rich rewards. Jesus knew his time on earth was coming to an end, yet he cared enough for those closest to him to make sure they clearly understood his word, giving his personal assurance that he would never leave them or forsake them (Deuteronomy 31:8). We have that same security and peace as believers, knowing our eternal place is being prepared just as he promised. While we can’t reach out and touch heaven, we can know with certainty that such a place is never too far away when the Spirit of God lives within our hearts.

One friend

When it comes to articulating affairs of the heart, you often find people on opposite ends of the spectrum. For some, Valentine’s Day is a time to express feelings of love with cards, flowers, chocolates and candy kisses. For others, it’s a time to share similar sentiments without all the manufactured accoutrements. Either way, telling others how you feel about them is always a good thing (Proverbs 16:24) and you don’t need a Valentine’s Day to do so. Any time is the right time to offer reassuring thoughts with not only loved ones, but with friends as well. Take a minute to acknowledge and recognize those who understand you and know you inside out. Thank those who help keep you together and believe, without a doubt, that you can move mountains. On the two-way street that is mankind’s mutual journey through life, such support and encouragement helps build bonds, forge friendships and strengthen the ties that bind (Acts 4:32). And, while your heart is open wide, tell God how much you love Him -- not because He needs to hear it, but because you want to (1 Corinthians 8:3). Having hundreds of friends on Facebook is nice enough, but if you were to have only one friend left, you’ll want it to be The One.