Foreigner

“These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return. But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.” - Hebrews 11:13-16

 

     A simple thought has come to my mind multiple times in the last few months. “I just can’t wait to be with You, Jesus.”

     Sometimes it comes when things are going well and I’m just enjoying my Savior.  However, more often it comes in the midst of the tough days--those days when things aren’t working out like I had hoped; those days when I feel let down by circumstances, people or (maybe most common of all) myself.  You know what I mean, because you have those days too.  It’s those days that I am reminded that nothing in this world will truly satisfy me.  C.S. Lewis said something that I keep coming back to.

“If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the more probable explanation is that I was made for another.”

     Those Old Testament saints mentioned in Hebrews 11 understood this truth.  They would never reach their goal this side of heaven.  A new homeland wouldn’t bring the fulfillment their hearts yearned for.  The same truth applies to you and I.  More money, more things, more health or more comfort won’t satisfy us.  Perpetual peace in our homes and in all the rest of our relationships won’t satisfy us either.  You won’t be satisfied even if your biggest dreams come to fruition.  I won’t be satisfied even if God uses me to accomplish huge, world-changing things as a missionary.  We will still be left yearning for more.  This is, of course, by design.  We were made with an appetite that will only be satiated in the presence of our Maker.  We may get a taste of it now, but its ultimate fulfillment won’t come until we are face to face with Him.

     In the meantime, let’s give up on trying to find fulfillment in anything this world has to offer.  We weren't made for this place.  We can enjoy all that He has given us, but let’s do so with our eyes on Him and the glorious day to come when we will rest in His presence.  Indeed, we will see You soon, Jesus.  We can’t wait.