Casandra Martin

As memories of the recent season wash over us, take a picture of the moment. Catching our breath from the stress and exhaustion that inevitably overwhelms us, draw on the comfort that met you. As life settles once more into its routine, reignite your soul with the spark of anticipation that warmed your heart as you prepared to go home for the holidays.

With all of its tinsel-wrapped glitter and lighted-ornament dazzle, the most anticipated part of the holidays is not the boxes and bags, but the warm embrace of family and the comfort of home.

Home. Let that word roll in your imagination for a moment. What picture does it bring to mind? Let your soul soak in the gentleness of your mother’s touch. Feel your father’s hand on your back as encouragement floods your heart. Lose yourself, for just a moment, in the unconditional love of those who know you best.

Does it make the day seem just a bit brighter? Is your load a little lighter? As the anticipation of holiday homecomings fades, commit to daily igniting your soul with the anticipation of going home. Not the house with the wooden door, but the mansion surrounded by pearl gates.

Heaven. Can you see it in your mind’s eye? With all its gold streets and jewel-encrusted walls, the most anticipated part of heaven is not the shimmering crystal sea, but the warm embrace of the Father and the comfort of finally being home. Close your eyes. Let your soul soak in the gentleness of the Savior’s touch. Let your heart melt as you hear the Father whisper, “Well done.” Lose yourself, for just a moment, in the unconditional love of those who know you best.

My Jesus Resolution today is to let the anticipation of that future shape my present. I am going to let thoughts of heaven fill my mind. I am going to fill my heart with the love of God’s family and dream…of going home.