Eternity in our Hearts

"Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have for all the saints; because of the hope laid up for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel.”
~Colossians 1:4-5

“I’ve always known this isn’t home…” This phrase has been echoing in my head since I heard is last week. It is from a Bethany Dillon song and it struck a chord deep within my heart. I realized that although Jesus purchased eternity with Him, I still live as though satisfaction can be found on earth. I live as though there is something more that can be found around the next corner and the reason I haven’t reached it yet is because I have more to do or God is holding out on me.
In a sense it is true, there is something more, but it is HIM, Christ Jesus our Lord. I will not experience it until I am in His presence. John 17:3 tells us that eternal live is not just a heavenly destination. It is being reunited in a relationship with Christ.
Our culture tells us otherwise though. This summer I spent 2 months ministering in community. Since returning, I have found myself lonely in Lexington. One of my good friends moved away to grad school and life had changed while I was gone. My roommate is growing in relationship with a wonderful man, and I have found myself discouraged by what life could be and what it really is….I believe the lie that I am living it alone. The combination of a crazy schedule and sudden health problems have left me discouraged and tired.
Last week the Lord reminded me that I am not in search of anyone, but of Him and He is pursuing me in return. I read the above verse in Colossians and was convicted that the reason the Colossian church experienced strong faith and love for others was steeped in their understanding that life here is not what we are living for.
It is ironic that these feelings of longing are much like those of the freshmen I have been trying to reach. Only many of them still believe they can find perfection because they have yet to hear of the perfect one. As I relearn this pray for them to meet HIM.