Monday, September 27, 2010

Heaven, Bryan Adams style

And love is all that I need, And I found it there in your heart
It isn't too hard to see we're in heaven.

Heaven, Bryan Adams, 1985

Do you ever think about what Heaven will be? Different ideas abound. Some think we'll have angel wings and float on clouds. Others think it will be like a "boring" church service. Some make mention of the streets of gold. What will we do in Heaven?

I love the quote by A. W. Tozer: "If worship bores you, you're not ready for heaven." I love singing praise songs to God. The idea that heaven could be one big worship service where we all lift our praises to God is thrilling to me. From old standards like "How Great Thou Art" to modern praise music like "How Great is Our God" I love worship! Still, that doesn't mean I have the full idea of heaven.

I remember one Sunday as we launched into the 100th chorus of "I could sing of your love forever" I began to wonder if we were going to. And I was no longer sure that I could sing of his love forever. So even though I love music, I can also relate to folks who don't get into singing fearing a boring heaven.

Bryan Adams lyric is fitting here. "Love is all that I need, and I found it there in your heart. It isn't too hard to see, we're in heaven." That, to me, is the summation of what heaven will really be like. Pure love. We will feel the full presence of God's love for us, without sin as a barrier. We will experience pure love for God, and others, in our perfected bodies without the influence of sin, shame and hurt we experience now in our earthly lives.

Revelation 21 tells us that in heaven there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain. Boring? I don't think so! So while I get a little excited about thinking that every day in heaven will be a "Musical Monday," and that my voice will be more than a "joyful noise" in heaven, the best part about heaven will be God's love and standing in the presence of God.

"You're all that I want! You're all that I need!"

Musical Musings:
1. What do you think heaven will be like?
2. Do you enjoy worship? If not, what changes can you make to find it a more enjoyable experience?
3. If you don't enjoy music, what are some other ways that you can praise God?

Karaoke:
Dear Lord: I'm excited about heaven, but I know that the thought scares some people. Lord, offer them your peace and comfort. Give them a glimpse into your love so that they will be excited heaven. Help us to have focused and spirit filled worship on earth so that we can get a taste of heaven and desire more. Thank you God for offering us eternal life, a chance to be with you forever. Thank you that your love truly is all that we need. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Rock On:
Read Revelation 21 to get an image of the end times. Or if you're feeling adventurous, read all of John's Revelation in the Bible.

Chatty Kelly

3 comments:

Melanie said...

I think about Heaven often. I'm ready to go. Part of my heart is there already.
HEAVEN by Randy Alcorn (foremost authority on the subject) is an excellent resource.

Andrea said...

Kelly,
I long for heaven and there are some days I don't understand why some get to go and others of us must stay. I know HIS timing for each of us is perfect!
Blessings,
andrea

Edwina at The Picket Fence said...

I think about heaven just about everyday, because my sweet Mom is there. I think unending Praise and Worship is what we will be doing there. I love here on earth but look forward to the time when I can meet Jesus face to face and hear him say "Well Done" and then I am going to get my Worship ON!!!