Heaven is My Home – Week of February 17, 2020

For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees, and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess.

Deuteronomy 30:16

The people of Israel had spent forty years waiting to enter the Promised Land. They stood at the brink of finally reaching their goal, when their leader, Moses, spoke the words of our Bible text. Moses knew his journey would end before the people stepped into this new home, but theirs was just beginning. What would they do? Would they follow God’s commands or slip into their old habits of worry, complaints, and disobedience?

We are not so different from the people of Israel. We thank God for faithful parents, friends, and leaders who made sure we learned about God’s law and how Jesus kept that law for us. Yet still we wander. We gossip or complain about work. We worry and forget Jesus’ continued love and providing care.

The list Moses gave the people and us today was daunting: walk in obedience and keep God’s commands, decrees, and laws. But Moses also encouraged the people. Just a few moments later he said, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6). Moses rightly promised that no matter what dangers or temptations we face, the Lord will be with us and forgive us. His death and resurrection seal that promise for us. We can always depend on his help, guidance, and forgiveness.

Moses promised the people wonderful blessings for their allegiance to God. For a long time they prospered in their promised new home. Our new home is waiting for us. Because of Jesus’ gracious sacrifice, we know we get to spend eternity in heaven with him forever.

“Therefore I murmur not; heaven is my home. Whate’er my earthly lot, heaven is my home. And I shall surely stand there at my Lord’s right hand. Heaven is my fatherland; heaven is my home.” (Christian Worship 417:4)

Prayer:
Dear Lord, every day I face temptations and hardships. Remind me that you are always with me, protecting me from all evil. I long to join you in heaven. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Early Childhood Ministry Educator’s (ECME) Devotions are brought to you by WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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