Two thousand years ago Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry spoke deeply to the men, women, youth, and children around Him. After all, Jesus gave them amazing foretastes of what is eternally true for each of His followers. Those foretastes of heaven covered a wide horizon including seeing individuals raised from the dead, seeing others healed physically, and seeing still others come alive spiritually by Jesus’ power.

Let’s not make the mistake, however, of thinking that these wonderful foretastes of heaven aren’t ours to experience today. Even though our salvation is all-encompassing, it doesn’t mean we never get sick, never suffer trials, never fear life-threatening disease, and never face temptation. It’s counter-intuitive, but each of these troubles help you and me long more than ever for heaven.

Let me make this highly applicable. Our sins - past, present, and future - are all forgiven once for all and forever, and yet we experience God’s forgiveness anew each time we confess our sins. The Lord wants us to enjoy this foretaste of heaven not occasionally, but every day. 

I urge you to keep short accounts with God. It will put joy in your heart and help you better reach your world for Christ.

This is Luis Palau.