What is Heaven like?
In The Joyful Christian, C.S. Lewis1 writes that Christians are sometimes afraid to discuss Heaven for fear of being “jeered” about our “pie in the sky” beliefs (p. 227). Or that we may be accused of trying to escape our duty of making this world a better place by looking toward happiness elsewhere. Lewis asserts:
“But either, there is ‘pie in the sky’ or there is not. If there is not, then Christianity is false, for this doctrine is woven into its whole fabric. If there is, then this truth, like any other, must be faced.”
The Joyful Christian, p. 227
Lewis declares that Heaven is real, part of the very foundation of our Christian faith. Of course, I agree, as the three previous messages in this blog series confirm. So if Heaven is real—what is it like?
In Heaven is a city designed and built by God.
For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. Hebrews 11:10 2
Now if God designed and built Heaven, we know it must be awesome!
Heaven is glory!
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set you hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthy things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Colossians 3:1-4
The author of Revelations describes his vision of Heaven:
I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Revelations 21:2-4
Heaven is a welcoming home!
Jesus describes Heaven as a welcoming home that has lots of space for those who believe. He assured His followers (and us) that He has prepared our home in Heaven.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you may be where I am.” John 14:1-3
Heaven is paradise!
Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43
The promise of being in Paradise–with Jesus–what could be better than that?
Heaven is JOY!
For surely we must suppose the life of the blessed to be an end in itself, indeed The End: to be utterly spontaneous; to be complete reconciliation of boundless freedom with order—with the most delicately adjusted, supple, intricate, and beautiful order?”
C.S. Lewis, The Joyful Christian, p. 228
C.S. Lewis discusses the dilemma of not being able to describe in our language what Heaven is like. Our earthly life just cannot compare to Heaven. Lewis suggests that the closest we come is in our hours off from the business of our earthly lives. There we find an analogy:
Dance and game are frivolous, unimportant down here; for “down here” is not their natural place. Here, they are a moment’s rest from the life we were placed here to live. But in this world everything is upside down. That which, if it could be prolonged here, would be a truancy, is likest that which in a better country is the End of Ends. Joy is the serious business of Heaven.”
C.S. Lewis, The Joyful Christian, p. 228
Joy is the serious business of Heaven!
We have much to look forward to when we enter the kingdom of Heaven–being with our Father in glory; welcomed with open arms by our Lord Jesus; a reunion with loved ones in Paradise; and experiencing joy beyond our ability to describe.
Has the world been so kind to you that you should leave with regret? There are better things ahead than any we leave behind.
C.S. Lewis
1 C.S. Lewis. The Joyful Christian. Macmillan Publishing Company. 1984.
2 All scripture is from The Holy Bible, New International Version
Next week will be the fifth and final post in this series on Heaven, “What will we do in Heaven?” You may view previous messages by clicking on the links below. Wishing you a blessed week, my friends.
Part 1: Thinking of Heaven
Part 2: Where is Heaven?
Part 3: Who is in Heaven?
Until the day my friend. On that day, we shall be reunited with our loved ones who preceded us; but most of all, we will be joined for eternity with our Lord and Savior. Oh the joy that awaits us. I’ve often said I would be satisfied being a street sweeper in heaven as long as I am with my Lord. As I’m getting closer to my appointed arrival time, I’m sort of hoping He allows me to tend the kingdom’s cattle. Looking forward to your conclusion next week ma’am. Have so appreciated this series. Well done Ms. Katherine.
As my sweet husband and I discussed our thoughts about Heaven, I shared a feeling that perhaps God would grant us the opportunity to use the gifts that He had blessed us with. I think of the gifts of building, gardening, farming, cooking, and “fix-it man”, I’m sure my sweet man is busily involved helping others. I think being God’s rancher, taking care of the cattle (and God’s other creatures) may be a gift you can share, too. Of course, it’s all too wonderful and amazing for us to know what Heaven is truly like, but I feel sure God has an awesome plan for us. Again, thank you, my friend, for your love, encouragement, and prayers.
Of the many gems in this post, I think my favorite is: “Has the world been so kind to you that you should leave with regret? There are better things ahead than any we leave behind.”
It helps me see death through a different lens.
I’ve enjoyed this series! Thank you.
I have great admiration for C.S. Lewis, although sometimes, his wonderful messages are a little too complicated for me to understand without a great deal of study. But of course, that is the way we learn–STUDY!. I’m thankful that this quote is easy to understand and gets right to the point. Heaven is a wonderful and special place and we’ll have no regrets–only praise, glory, and JOY! Thank you, Candyce, for joining me in this series and for your continued encouragement. Wishing you a blessed week.