A Change of Address

Having moved recently, we as a family have had to get used to both saying and writing a new address. When asked in a store for her address, my daughter Joanna had to think twice before giving it. Just yesterday, as I was filling out some forms, three times I began to write down our old one.  Not only that, but since we are living fairly close to our former address, multiple times, as Kim and I have been driving home, we’ve started to turn down the street where we used to live. Even after close to a month, we are all still getting used to the fact that we have had a change of address.

The Bible shows us that one day, we who are God’s people will all have a change of address. We will no longer live as part of this world, but in a new place—a world designed for us by God. Jesus said, “In my Father's house are many rooms (i.e. dwelling places)... I am going there to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:2-3-NIV) By his words, Jesus gives to us the assurance that one day we will move as a family—God’s family—to our Father’s house. We will have a change of address!

The book of Revelation tells us that one day we will live in a place where “there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…." (Revelation 21:4 –NIV).  No longer will we live in a world filled with injustice and pain, conflict and sorrow, and all the other difficulties of a world that has fallen away from God. Instead, we will live where God is at the center of all things. We will live in a place that is filled with light and life! We will have a change of address!

I want to remind you that, what you may be experiencing in your life today—the pain, the difficulties, the conflicts, and disappointments—are not the end of the story. This is not your final address. The Bible promises you, and all who are followers of Jesus, a new life in a new world. As part of God’s family, one day you will experience a change of address!

“Therefore encourage each other with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:18-NIV) 

Have a great day!

-Pastor Tim Harris