Times change. So does furniture. The old twin bed is out of our daughter’s room. We’re replacing it with a full-size bed for guests, as well as for her when she comes home. And she’s coming home soon!
Last week I conducted a careful (yes, some might say obsessive) search for the perfect bedding. After deciding on a lighthearted duvet cover, I told my neighbor. Her response skipped past my specific selection and went straight to the heart of the matter. “You’re really excited about her coming home.” As much as I love color and design, the real motivator is, indeed, love for our daughter. If you read my last post (“See me”), you know she’s had a tough time the past few months. So has a friend who is a frequent guest in our home. I want to do all I can to provide an environment that is inviting, peaceful, and healing.
As I went out to buy sheets, I thought how wonderful it would be if every child—of any age—was loved enough that someone would put great care into preparing a place for him/her. As soon as the thought crossed my mind, I remembered Jesus promised to do just that! Let’s listen in as he talks to his disciples. Knowing his remaining days with them were few, and they would soon face heartache and trials, he comforted them with these words: “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 also be where I am.” (John 14:2-3, NIV)
Hearing Jesus’ words, the disciples would have instantly pictured a wedding. In the tradition of the time, the groom-to-be would build a room onto his father’s house for him and his bride. (He didn’t just decorate it. He constructed it!) As he worked, he would have thought lovingly of his betrothed and the life they would share. When the wedding day finally arrived, there would be a joyful procession as he and his friends went to the bride’s home to bring her back for the ceremony, celebration, and life together.
Jesus was telling his disciples he loved them as intensely as a groom should love his bride. He was going to prepare a place just for them and couldn’t wait to share it with them. I believe this promise was intended not only for the Twelve, but also for all who call on the name of Jesus (or in Hebrew: Yeshua). Life in this world can be harsh. Isn’t it comforting to know a place of peace and healing is being lovingly prepared? Meanwhile, let’s get to know this Jesus, this craftsman who is preparing a place.
