THE GLORIES OF HEAVEN

…”How awesome is this place!  This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of heaven.”  (Gen. 28:17, NIV)

I just finished reading another book that a friend gave me titled “Ninety Minutes in Heaven”, a true story of death and life, by Don Piper with Cecil Murphy.  I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical before reading it about Piper’s heaven experience, but, after completing the book, I am convinced of Piper’s credibility.  His time in heaven completely changed his outlook on life, and the book is a good reminder that God is faithful to bring His children through even the most horrific circumstances and use them for His glory.

Piper, an ordained minister, was traveling home from a Texas convention in January 1989.  On the way home, he decided to take a different route that took him across a long bridge where, as he later learned, several accidents had occurred.  Just before noon, his Ford Escort was hit head-on by an eighteen-wheeler driven by an inmate.  Piper’s small vehicle was sandwiched between the bridge railing and the driver’s side of the truck, and all the wheels of the truck went on top of the car and smashed it.  Piper was killed instantly and stayed dead for ninety minutes.

So what did heaven look like, according to Piper?  He felt enveloped by bright light, great joy pulsated through his being and he became aware of a large crowd of people standing around him.  Every person was smiling, shouting and praising God, and looked more radiant and joyful than they’d ever been on earth.  He did not see God, but remembers many dazzling colors.  He also heard heavenly singing that was beyond earthly description.  Praise to God was everywhere and every sound, voice and instrument blended together in magnificent harmony.  During his time in heaven, Piper felt like he was home.

If God called you home today, are you ready?  We never know when God will call us home to be with Him.  When my purpose on earth is finished, I will be there permanently.  I hope to see you there, too, so I can say, “Welcome home!”

Jesus, we long for our heavenly home!