A Forever Home

Bible Reading: John 14:1-6

“Mom!” Santiago wailed. “I have to write a report tonight on how Native Americans lived long ago. I totally forgot it was due tomorrow!”

“Well, start researching for your report,” Mom said. “I’ll fix you a snack. How about carrots and dip?”

Santiago sighed. “Okay.” He sat down at the computer and began to scroll through different websites. “Hey, Mom, listen to this,” he said after a few minutes. “It says here that not all Native American houses were made the same.”

Mom nodded. “That’s probably because people lived in so many different places and they didn’t all have the same kind of environment or lifestyles,” she replied as she scooped some dip into a bowl.

“Yeah. Tribes that lived on plains, like the Blackfeet and Lakota, lived in teepees made of buffalo hides. They could just fold them up and follow the buffalo herds,” Santiago said. “Algonquin people, who lived in forest areas, had homes with rounded tops called wigwams. They were often covered with the bark of trees. And in the desert, Navajo people lived in hogans that were covered with earth.’’

“Different kinds of houses fit their different needs,” observed Mom. “Does that remind you of the kind of place Jesus said He was going to prepare for us?”

“Well, now that you mention it, it does. He’s fixing a place for us in His Father’s house. That’s heaven, isn’t it?”

“That’s right,” said Mom. “And the place He prepares will be perfect. The Bible says that when Jesus returns, He will create a new heaven and a new earth. He will get rid of sin forever and make everything new.” Mom set the carrots and dip on the table. “Native Americans built the right kind of house for their various needs. But earthly houses are only temporary. The home Jesus prepares for us will last forever!”

“In the Bible, He mentions mansions,” said Santiago. “It would be cool to live in one of those!”

“Some translations don’t use the word mansions, but the place Jesus is preparing will be a wonderful home,” said Mom. She laughed. “And we won’t have to make monthly payments on it!”

Santiago grinned. “Because Jesus paid the price for us.”

-Jo Hebert

How About You?

What is your home like? You may live in an apartment, a mobile home, or a big brick house. Maybe you have a room of your own or share one with a sibling. Maybe your mom and your dad live with you—or maybe not. Thank God for providing a home for you on earth, but don’t forget—it’s only temporary. If you know Jesus, you’ll one day live in the forever home He has prepared for you.

Today’s Key Verse:
John 14:3 After I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back. Then
I will take you with me, so that you can be where I am. (ERV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus is preparing a forever home