Living As A Citizen Of Heaven

In the truest sense, Christian pilgrims have the best of both worlds. We have joy whenever this world reminds us of the next, and we take solace whenever it does not. - C.S. Lewis

1 Peter 2:11 says, “Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.”

We are merely pilgrims in this world. Yet many of us continue to “wallow in the passions of the flesh like pigs in the mire” (Maximus the Confessor, 7th Century). This is because we have no idea how wonderful and glorious heaven is and what awaits us when we enter eternal rest.

Richard Baxter (17th century English Puritan church leader) said that when a Christian consistently casts his or her mind toward heaven, even the best this world has to offer seems dull and unsatisfying. Once we are able to focus our minds on the things above, all that the world has to offer will seem unimportant. Our priorities will then shift to doing God’s will which is more satisfying.

How do we focus on the things above?

Put to death your earthly desires ( cf. Col. 3:1), and do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. (cf. Rom.12:2).

God our Father,

Be with us on our pilgrim journey of faith. Give us the grace and courage to step forward in faith and hope on the road ahead. Lord Jesus, Open our eyes to see your face in all those we encounter. Open our ears to hear your voice in those who are often ignored. Open our hearts that we might be faithful disciples as we journey this world as pilgrims and until you decide it is time for us to return home to our heavenly abode.

In Jesus name,

Amen.