And So

Your word, O LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.

Psalm 119:89

For over ten years, I have been telling my grandchildren bedtime stories. The stories revolve around an adventurous boy who enters a world of magic, dragons, and dinosaurs. Each night, one grandchild suggests the basic plot, while the others contribute character names or special details. My job is to turn their ideas into an exciting story. Creating these stories together has become a treasured family tradition and one of my greatest joys.

When I’m telling the stories, I sometimes use the phrase “and so.” I say the words with emphasis, then pause, allowing anticipation to build before revealing the thrilling event that follows. If I were telling you the events foretold in Matthew 24, 1 Corinthians 15, or Revelation 21, I would use the phrase “and so” often, because what comes next for a believer is very exciting!

In Matthew 24, Jesus foretells the events that will lead up to and accompany His return. 1 Corinthians 15 tells of believers’ future transformation, when our perishable bodies are clothed with the imperishable. Through Jesus Christ, we have victory over death! Revelation 21 tells of a new heaven and earth where God dwells with us. The old with its tears, pain, and death will pass away. We will see the face of Jesus and worship Him in holiness.

Unlike the fantasy stories I tell my grandchildren, God’s Word is true. Psalm 119:89 declares that God’s Word stands firm. Every promise of God is certain and is, therefore, our hope and assurance.

And so—the future for a follower of Jesus Christ is more exciting and glorious than our finite minds can comprehend. Through faith in Jesus Christ, this glorious future is yours.

Thank you, Jesus, for the certainty that we who know and follow you now will one day see you face to face. We anticipate the boundless joy of living in your presence in a perfect kingdom and worshiping you forever. Come quickly, Lord Jesus!

Jan Burkhart