I Can Only ImagineShembull

In Bart Millard’s story and in ours, the places of significance to us—our home—are meaningful spaces where we can find forgiveness and redemption in the remarkably ordinary moments of life. We long for this kind of home—where we find meaning, where we are known, where we are safe, where we belong. 

Surely, there is hope for a home within this world. But even the best homes in this lifetime are just a faint shadow of the true and better home—the eternal place deep within all of our longings. 

Much like the Old Testament, the New Testament carefully notes the spaces and places of Jesus’ life, the disciples’ journeys, and the apostles’ missionary travels. As soon as we determine to walk with Jesus in the Gospels, we are welcomed into an ancient world of meaningful places. 

Jesus' literal, physical resurrection and ascension—he lives and reigns within a human body and a finite place—means that no physical space lacks meaning. The fact that Jesus' eternal life is physical means that home is more than a symbol; it’s a real place of spiritual power. 

In his earthly life and ministry, Jesus didn’t have a home (Matthew 8:20), and yet everywhere he went became home for those around him. In a very real sense, home is wherever Christ is. 

Recall the short story from Luke 10: Jesus and his disciples were traveling when Martha invited them into her home. As Jesus and the disciples relaxed in the living room, Martha went about preparing the meal. Picking out ingredients, kneading the dough, preparing the meal, and scrubbing dishes, Martha was exhausted. 

In the midst of her hard work, Martha doesn’t miss the fact that her sister, Mary, isn’t helping. Instead, Mary is spread out on the floor, relaxing with Jesus and their friends. Mary wasn’t worried about the meal or the table or the dishes. 

Martha, in her frustration, asks Jesus to rebuke her sister for her—passive-aggressive request. But Jesus’ response extends even to us today: 

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her”. - Luke 10:40-42

Imagine Jesus speaking these words to you. Put your name in the place of Martha’s name. “My friend,” Jesus says to you, “you are worried about much, but only one thing matters: Being with me!” 

Only in Christ do we find a home without demands, heavy burdens, and expectations. Only at home with Jesus are we able to be ourselves, to put our work down, and to spread out on a comfortable rug to listen to the stories, jokes, and invitations of our Lord. 

We need to relax at home with Jesus.

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