Reading Job recently, I love the picture of heaven we are given in the book. It’s just a brief glimpse, but it reminds us that heaven is the real reality! Everything we experience here on earth is merely a shadow, a copy or a foretaste of the fullness of the heavenly life with the Lord that we are looking forward to.

The shadow idea comes from Hebrews 10:1: “the law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming”. A shadow gives you an idea of the shape of something, and perhaps an indication of its size. But it doesn’t show you the richness, the beauty, or the colours; it lacks the three-dimensional fullness of the original.

Hebrews 9:24 also tells us that the tabernacle is a copy of the real worship place in heaven! I saw the Mona Lisa recently, and I could attempt to draw a copy version. But if I did it would be a pale and feeble imitation of the original! I’m looking forward to joining in with the truest and fullest of worship in the heavenly temple.

And the best and most beautiful of this world is only a foretaste (Romans 8:23 NLT) or a deposit or downpayment. God has shown us enough for us to understand that His promise is secure and reliable, He is preparing a place for us (John 14:2,3) and we are going to be with Him. I love my food, but I’m betting that what is served at the Lamb’s wedding feast will be better than the best bacon sandwiches or even my wife’s chocolate cake!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *