ok. firstly, the Bible doesn't promise us a smooth road towards Heaven. this is definite. everyone's faith will be put to test before they are given the prize. the concept goes with the current world system today: degrees are obtained only by excruciatingly long studies in university, high positions are rewarded to those who work really hard, etc.
but Heaven - arh! the sheer beauty! what prize do we need to pay to get there? A LOT! sometimes everything!
(i am doing a research together with reverend johannes about this, and so i won't reveal much about this yet, because i don't have enough materials and i don't want to dishonor his privacy.)
this is my mental picture of a road to Heaven - a looooooong road trip on foot. everyone can participate. all it takes is a heart of desire. there is only one way towards Heaven, which is the road of Christ. but along this road, there are many attractions that distract you. for example, there is a theme park along the way, symbolising entertainment/fun 24-7. if you go walk into the park, you will take a break from the journey. some people take long enough to not complete the journey!
another attraction for example is a buffet - greed. there are many things that people greed over in this life - materials, money, comfort, food. but if you keep on indulging yourself on these things, there will be more stuff to carry with you on the run towards Heaven. that will be a burden. lay them down at the foot of the cross and you'll run light.
more things lie ahead. for example, a gorge which you need to jump over. this can symbolize many things. but one thing's for sure - perseverance or helplessness. if you persevere, you can make a way across the gorge - by building a bridge, or finding a rope, or even training before you jump the gorge! but if you think you are helpless, then it's commit suicide without a doubt. it's tempting to just die and end your burdens right away, but wouldn't there be more (and only) burdens in hell? think about it before taking that plunge.
there are cold nights that you wish you have a flame. tempting to try and make one. tough when the wind blows, eh? but why don't you pray that the Holy Spirit will burn a warm flame in you?
of course, there are many more examples, but i shouldn't bore you with more. if you want another picture of the road, think of it as empty at first. but as you walk, the devil keeps throwing things from you from the side of the road, telling you to stop. he throws you food. don't stop! only seek the Bread of Life. he throws you a wall. don't stop! run through it like how david ran to goliath! he throws you a mountain. don't stop! climb over it!
there are obstacles along the way, but everything can be overcame in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. and if we made it through all the roads, though the numbers of bruises, cuts, bleedings we have, once we step into Heaven, all will be healed. and Jesus will then say to you, "well done, my child. well done..."
"even though the journey's long, and i know the road is hard, but the One who has come before me, He will help me carry on."
- lyrics of "mountain of God" by third day
- lyrics of "mountain of God" by third day
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