Christ or Heaven
By Mike Rule

Many are excited and passionate about going to heaven and it is the main focus of their lives. I have never felt that way and I really struggle to understand that way of thinking. For most of my life I was scared to death of dying. I would go through terrible anxiety attacks at the thought of it. I cannot understand how anyone could take the attitude that life was just to be endured until the day we are ushered into His presence.

In John 17, Jesus is praying for Himself. He said that He came to grant eternal life to everyone His Father has given to Him. Verse 3 is significant; "Now this is eternal life, that they might KNOW you, the one true God and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." Eternal life is not dying & going to Heaven, it is NOW! Eternal life is knowing God! The implication here is an intimate knowledge of God -- i.e. intimacy with God through Jesus Christ.

I am not saying that we should not look forward to seeing Him face to face, but does He intend for that thought to consume our entire lives? Why would I want to be in Heaven when I know I am right where He wants me to be now? If He wanted me there, He would take me there! I know I am dead center in the middle of His will right now and for me to desire to be somewhere else is simply desiring to be outside His will. We are citizens of the kingdom and we are already in Heaven -- but we are on special assignment here on earth until such time as He sees fit to move us somewhere else.

If we see Him everyday and have trust and confidence in Him, is it not enough? Paul understood this when he said he would love to be in heaven, but he knew it was more needful for him to remain here on earth. He knew he was right where God wanted him to be and it was enough. Paul knew so clearly that Jesus was enough; no matter what the circumstance; whether on special assignment or face to face in the glorious presence of Christ!!! Jesus is enough!