Saturday, November 7, 2009

A Taste of Heaven

Last night we attended a dinner honoring local Pastors and their wives.  This is the 4th year in a row to have this in our small town.  Mary S. organizes, plans and prepares all the food (with help) and has a special program each year. 
The tables were set beautifully with fancy dishes, beautiful flowers, candles and home made gifts for each couple.  The food was fabulous (as usual) and the companionship - heavenly!
Last night, instead of having one person pray for the meal each table spontaneously held hands and prayed, thanking God for the meal and the time to be together.  As we sat and ate and talked I was thinking that this really is a small taste of heaven.  Each table was full of faithful pastors and wives talking about their experiences, lives, ministries, missions, etc.  and even mundane (but wonderful) things, like houses, yards, kids, etc.  It was such a joy to fellowship with fellow workers.  What was even more wonderful is that we were from all different denominations, but did not have even one "argument" about theology, doctrine, etc.  We just shared our lives together for a few hours.  What was clear is that we all believe the basics about Jesus, salvation, and the need for those who do not yet know Christ to come to know Him.  We are all burdened for our small town. 
At the close of the meal we went into the sanctuary where we were treated to a program put on by two girls, ages 7 and 11.  They were amazing!  The 7 year old spoke, encouraged us with Scripture and sang beautifully!   The 11 year old is a harpist (who takes lessons from the Harpist for the Fresno Philharmonic) and played 3 beautiful pieces. 
The whole evening for me was a small taste of what heaven will be like someday.... people from every tongues and tribe and people and nation (and denomination!) together worshiping God and sharing stories of their lives on earth. 
"O taste and see that the Lord is good!"

No comments: