We speak of a new heaven and new earth. We say we are looking forward to the Messianic Reign. Several of us have also ascertained that eternity in paradise probably won't amount to harp playing on clouds. Through the years, I've heard at the time of the passing of certain folk that their loved ones can just "see them in heaven" fishing or golfing or whatever their favorite sport was, which I believe sounds a bit like what I've heard about the Mormon's own planets . . . I picture eternal paradise to be more like our Creator first design this world to be.
I could be wrong, but I see those who take on immortality in Y'hshuwah Messiah will be tending to gardens, enjoying animals, celebrating Sabbaths and Feasts, and worshiping our Creator. I have no doubt everything will be enjoyable, but I've also given consideration to a couple of new thoughts since attending the most amazing funeral I've ever witnessed. We know our bodies will be as Messiah's and there are no tears, but have we considered the concept that there will be no need for teaching, evangelizing, or any of the five fold ministries, because we'll know . . . Prophecy will be fulfilled, YHWH is our Shepherd and Messiah is The Rabbi. The Good News will have already been shared throughout the world, and there will be no need for healing or deliverance, since there will be no sickness or demons in paradise! I imagine the talents we've been given will still be of value in eternity. I know I plan to do some major foot anointing and washing . . .
As I sat at that funeral listening to some amazing tributes to an individual, and some adorable anecdotes provided by the decedent's wife, one comment stood out among so many. I would have posted it to social media, but it was just too precious to have it torn to ribbons by theological terrorists. In a service that was literally standing room only, a man's life was celebrated as a godly man who put his faith into practice. Our entire downtown could not have accommodated the parking for all of us who called this man a friend and came to offer our respectful presence to his wife and children.
This quiet man who had been born 12 miles from where he spent his entire life, was the perfect example of what it is to "love G-d and love your neighbor." Although we did not walk in the same understanding of obedience, there was a mutual respect in the practical application of what we believed. Everyone said they knew where he stood in his faith, but he never argued and as his 49 years on this earth were celebrated, nobody could remember him having ever said an unkind word!
A young man who spoke admiringly of this quiet, gentleman, dairy farmer; made a statement regarding a Scripture that really touched me heart. This isn't about soul sleep or instant presence in heaven or anything else that would detract from the beauty and simplicity of the statement the young man made. He referenced the 50th Psalm as he spoke words of comfort and eternal encouragement in his heart touching comment. "Our Father has the cattle on a thousand hills . . . and he needed someone to milk them."
What are the talents we've been given by our Creator that will be useful in the world to come?
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