Heaven

What it means

Jesus says his Father's house has many rooms, he is going to prepare a place, and he will come back so that we may be with him.

Why every Christian should know it

The comfort is being with him, not simply going somewhere. Jesus gave it to disciples who were afraid of losing him.

Cross references

• 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
• Revelation 21:3
• Philippians 1:23

Pray it back

Lord Jesus, you are preparing a place and you are coming back. Keep that hope in front of me.

What it means

Paul would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.

Why every Christian should know it

It gives a Christian way to think about death: not annihilation, and not limbo, but presence with Christ.

Cross references

• Philippians 1:21-23
• Luke 23:43
• 1 Thessalonians 4:14

Pray it back

Lord, whether here or with you, I belong to you. Take my fear of dying.

What it means

The curse is gone, God's servants will see his face, and there will be no more night because the Lord gives them light.

Why every Christian should know it

It reverses Genesis 3. The Bible ends by undoing the curse it introduced early, which is the whole story in miniature.

Cross references

• Genesis 3:17-19
• Matthew 5:8
• Psalms 27:4

Pray it back

Lord, one day I will see your face. Let that hope shape what I live for now.