An Eternal Dwelling

Week 21, Monday

Lynette Ezell

Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling.

2 Corinthians 5:1-2

Five years ago my husband and I felt God impressing upon our hearts to take our three older children on a mission trip. We were told about a group of children with special needs in China who had been found locked up and left to live on mats, receiving only the basic necessities for survival. We knew this was where the Lord would have us serve. The first day in the orphanage was emotionally overwhelming as we witnessed sights and smells that literally took our breath away. Our family took basic necessities the children needed but it all seemed so insignificant in light of the immense suffering and neglect.

As I looked over that dark city the next morning, all I could do was groan and cry before the Lord. How could my one family’s efforts lift the suffering inflicted on these little ones? But as I prayed, the Lord’s presence and truth spoke to my mind, reminding me that we were here for just a short while and for a purpose. As I entered the orphanage that morning my eyes caught a small shell of a body crying silently in her bed. I realized that she was so ill that she was no longer being fed and had been left to suffer alone. I poured out my love and attention over her that week, talking to her with a mother’s voice and telling her she was about to see Jesus. I spent time each day rubbing her thin arm and painting a picture of heaven for her. I told her continually that I loved her and that Jesus would hold her in His arms very soon. I assured her that her suffering would end and soon she would be whole and well.

Many times the most difficult moments occur when we cannot change life. I look forward to seeing that sweet child again, for I know that she is with the Lord. God’s Word does not tell us everything about our resurrected bodies but we do know that they will be perfect, completely at peace. All sickness, pain, loneliness, and hurtful memories will be gone . . . eternally!

Father, make me a channel of Your love today. Life can be so overwhelming, but equip me to live for the purposes You have for me. Amen.