Heaven.  People want to go to this glorious place where there is no more suffering, pain or tears. I know I want to end up there!

Jesus talked about the kingdom of heaven, or God’s work on earth to bring people into His family, and ultimately into heaven in Matthew chapter13. He said some interesting things:

1. It would be offered, but not all would receive it. The reception of God’s wonderful gift would depend upon the condition of our hearts. Are our hearts open to receiving it, or are our hearts more concerned with the things of this life?
2. Not all people who say they are followers of Jesus will allow His Spirit to transform them or serve God for His purposes.
3. While on earth, there will be both true followers of Jesus and fakes. Fortunately, God knows the difference. 
4. Jesus’s work would start small and become so large and strong, it would be like a tree that could support life. This has been and is being fulfilled. He started his work with just a few men. Now His message has changed the lives of billions of people all over the world.
5. The kingdom of heaven would be like leaven in bread; permeating and changing all it touches. Anyone who has really given their life to Jesus and allowed His Spirit to work in them, knows this is true. It has also caused followers of Jesus to start hospitals, schools, universities, orphanages, and many other foundations, all for the sake of bringing the love of Christ to others.
6. Being a part of God’s eternal kingdom is so valuable, that we should gladly give up all the deteriorating trinkets and temporal applause of this world to be part of it. Think of living eternally being enveloped in the fully accepting love, joy, peace, and light of God! There we will be filled with a love, acceptance and wholeness we have never experienced before!
7. Not everyone will go to heaven. A number of times during His explanation of the kingdom of heaven, Jesus says not all will end up in heaven. Instead He states that at the close of this age (this age on earth), He will send His angels to gather all the sources of evil and the wicked, and they will be thrown in a furnace of fire where men will weep and gnash their teeth. I do not want to live eternally in a place of eternal pain, emptiness and regret. I pray you do not either.

Jesus welcomes everyone, but He leaves it up to us to decide. Won’t you give up the temporal, deteriorating allurements of this world for the wonderful presence of Him who will fill you with His love, joy, peace, and fulfillment now and eternally?

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