“The serious business of heaven is joy.” (G. K. Chesterton) What a marvelous sentence. Heaven is a place of total and perfect joy. Augustine said, “It is the decided opinion of all who use their brains that all men desire to be happy.” Consider these descriptions from Revelation 21-22. God will live with us, sadness, death, sorrow, pain are eliminated, blessings will flow, beauty will surround us, the glory of God will illuminate, evil is banished, healing for the nations, and crystal clear water in abundance!

Think daily about heaven from one these examples this week.

When you read of the appearances of Jesus to his disciples after His Resurrection you feel the joy of those who knew and loved him best. In your imagination jump forward in time when Jesus appeared to the Apostle John on prison island of Patmos. Trembling, fearful, at his appearance John is comforted and blessed by our Lord’s presence.

We will experience the joy of seeing and worshipping Jesus.

I imagine the joy I will experience seeing my Dad and those friends who are now in heaven. We have so much to talk about.

I imagine the serious joy of continuous wonder at the works of God, the beauty of the new heaven and earth. I’m laughing with joy as I contemplate this very moment. An unspoiled universe where our Heavenly Father of perfect love who casts all fear welcomes us home.

I imagine the loud, joyful, and glorious music sung by angels and saints alike. Will we hear instruments we have never heard before? Will our musicians experience a freedom and creativity they have known before to play their music? Imagine the praises flowing from those talented voices unhindered by any limitations as they sing loudly!

Heaven is now a place of celebration every time a lost person commits their life to Christ. The angels celebrate. It’s a heavenly party.

We were designed for joy! The joy of the Lord is our strength! We were created to love and delight in being loved. Joy to the World the Savior Reigns! Oh yes, think often and much about heaven!

Peace!