When I arrive in Heaven, I won’t…

…come in the back door and hang around in the kitchen and servant’s quarters.  I won’t peek through the balcony railings, watching all the “real guests” at the party having a good time.  I won’t enjoy the music from a distance, heard in snatches among the clatter of serving dishes.

When I arrive in Heaven, I won’t…

…be the last to arrive and the first to leave, making a cameo appearance.  I won’t hover by the door, waiting for a chance to escape from an uncomfortable situation.

When I arrive in Heaven, I won’t…

…slip in unnoticed and sit quietly to one side.  I won’t stand back, on the edge of conversations that I don’t feel right about joining.  I won’t look for someone, anyone, that I know well enough to talk with.

When I arrive in Heaven, I will…

…be greeted with enthusiasm.  I will hear a second of silence as the other guests register that I have arrived, then a rush of voices all saying they’re glad I’m there.

When I arrive in Heaven, I will…

…be shown to a good seat and asked what I’d like to eat and drink.  I will move around from group to group, being included in each conversation as if I belonged there.

When I arrive in Heaven, I will…

…see the Host make a point of coming to me, giving me a hug, focusing His attention on me.

When I arrive in Heaven, I will…

…BE WELCOME THERE!!!!!

Imagine:  Although by rights I am far beneath notice, suitable only to be ignored (or crushed, but that requires more attention), the Source of All That Exists will be glad to see me!  He is the rightful Center of Attention, the One to whom all praise and honor and glory are due.  But He will notice me, and He will welcome me.  What an amazing thought!

October 30, 2000