My cousin just got back from dropping her daughter off at college. She recounted for me how amazing it felt to drive around the corner onto the road leading to the entrance with upperclassmen on either side, holding signs, smiling, banging pool noodles, and cheering “Welcome home!” as they slowly drove up to the school. What a welcome back to school! My cousin shared how good it made her feel with so many mixed emotions in driving so many miles and knowing she would not see her daughter again for several months. Her daughter was welcomed here. She would be safe here. She would be happy here.
Then my cousin paused. She was quiet for a bit as tears began to form in her eyes. Then she said, “Wendy, I was thinking on the drive home…I wonder if that will be what heaven is like when we first get there: The pathway to my Savior lined with dear ones who have died before me, all cheering and welcoming me home!”
My cousin reminded me of the verse that talks about how the Lord Jesus rejoices at the death of one of His saints. She wondered if Jesus would possibly make a “welcome home party” for each of us, gathering our friends and loved ones and saying, “It’s time! Today we are welcoming Sue or Wendy home! Everyone get ready!” Then we both thought what it was like for our husbands when they entered heaven. I’m sure there was rejoicing, but could it have been rejoicing similar to the scene my cousin experienced when she dropped her daughter off at college?
