What’s Next? Beginning next week, we will return to John as Jesus heads toward the cross. We won’t finish until the end of April on Resurrection Sunday. Most of our bloggers are very grounded, and this will be in-depth with Keller, but I am hoping to welcome new people. Please pray for God to bring those He wants here, and that they will feel welcome and stay!
Paige Benton Brown is doing a 3-week study on Ruth, but I will not do that here, though many of you may choose to watch — she begins on 1/17. I look forward to learning much from Paige on my own, but it is hard to do it here without transcripts, and we need the time to finish John in time for Resurrection Sunday.
As we close the Christmas season, I’m going to take you to a place less familiar, but I believe it will bring comfort and peace to your heart. I remember being sad as a child when Christmas was over! That love didn’t last. As we mature our losses are much deeper and more painful — the loss of a child, a spouse, our health, our dreams.
Tim Keller, in this sermon on Jeremiah 31, illuminates the verse from Matthew 2 about “Rachel weeping for her children because they are not.” He said it describes the longing we all have for love that will last but, on this earth, does not. It is a longing for our true eternal home.
This is a longing that cannot be fulfilled on earth, though we try. Keller, in another sermon, explained that the reason people sit in the same pew each week is due to their longing for a home. (That helped me to give grace to people who won’t seem to sit somewhere else to accommodate new people!) In this sermon, Keller refers to the movie “Trip to Bountiful” when an elderly widow thinks if she can just go back to her childhood cottage, she will be happy, but after the long journey, she finds it isn’t as she remembered, and weeps.
A day is coming when we will come to our true and lasting home. All our yearnings on this earth point to that desire God put in our hearts. If we set our affections on things above and store up treasures in heaven, that will not only give us joy on earth but will add to our rejoicing when we finally do come home.
C. S. Lewis put it like this:
reflehttps://gospelinlife.com/sermon/the-longing-for-home/
Tweaked-Transcript-Longing-for-Home.com_ (3)
Sunday:
1. Share a blessing, despite being transitory, that you experienced this last Christmas week.
2. Can you identify with anything in the above? How have you seen a longing for home in your heart and life?
Monday: The Text
The History:
Jerusalem has been sacked, and God’s people are exiled from their home. The pilgrimage is hard. Keller explains that “Ramah” was a sort of prisoner camp, where they waited to be taken away. He says
“You can imagine the tears of the mothers weeping over their children who had been lost. Rachel’s tears are the tears of every person who has ever wept over the spiritual inhospitality of the world to your deepest desires.”
Now comes a promise from Jeremiah that seems “over the top.” It is true that after 70 years the people of God were released from Babylon and went home, but this passage seems to describe something much better than that.
3. Read Jeremiah 31:10-14 and describe the land promised and the reaction of God’s people. Why must this point to a better home?
4. How does it get you excited about the new heaven and new earth?
5. Read Jeremiah 31:15. What does it say?
6. Keller explains there are three times “Rachel” (which can be another name for Israel, the Bride that was Loved) cannot hold on to love. Each time reflects the sorrow and disappointment we can have on earth. Describe the specific sorrow that occurred in each of the passages below:
A. Genesis 35:16-18
B. Jeremiah 31:15-20 (Ramah is mentioned specifically in Ezra 2:26 — there were 621 exiles from Ramah and Ai)
C. Matthew 2:16-18
I’m excited for you to hear Keller explain how this points to Jesus, the “final Rachel.”
New Year’s Eve: We Were Meant For Home
Listen up to “The Second Thing” or Read the Section “New Year’s Eve.”
7. What stands out to you and why?
8. Choose a few Scriptures that Keller quotes from other prophets that show this is talking about the final return home, to the “New Heaven and New Earth.” How does this give you hope this New Year’s Eve?
New Year’s Day: We Have Lost Our Home
Listen up to “How Are We Going To Get Home” or read that far on the transcript.
9. What stands out and why?
10. Keller said the things the philosopher Camus said have stuck with him — what did he say and how could you apply it?
11. What was the point of the movie “Trip to Bountiful?” Have you ever tried to “go home again” and been disappointed?
12. What does Lewis say must be true since we have this longing for a perfect home — and why?
Thursday: How Are We Going to Get Home?
Listen or read up to “What will life be like there?”
13. What stands out and why?
14. Give an illustration from your own life on how your sin alienated you from someone, but repentance closed the gap.
15. Explain how Jesus was the final Rachel!
Friday: What Will Life Be Like There?
16. Read Jeremiah 31:31-34 and explain the fundamental difference that will be in us in the New Heaven and New Earth.
17. Read or listen to the end and share what stands out and why.
18. Meditate and share your thoughts on the following John Newton quote:
“Our pleasure and our duty, though opposite before, since we have seen his beauty, are joined to part no more.”
19. Read carefully about how Keller tells us to “visit our true home by prayer.” Explain.
Saturday:
20. What’s your take-a-way and why?
131 comments
1. Share a blessing, despite being transitory, that you experienced this last Christmas week.
I have found the blessing of rest this week. No house to clean (although that will come starting tomorrow!), nowhere to be (and on time), no make up if I don’t want it, and ohhh …the ability to lay about and watch a couple of movies and read a couple of books (one by Paul Tripp called “Suffering”). It has been nice.
2. Can you identify with anything in the above? How have you seen a longing for home in your heart and life?
I do understand the feeling of sadness when Christmas is over. It is still present however, even though we are not in our own home this year. The hype manages to take over, the meaning can be forgotten. I tried to make sure Jesus was the focus; I’m not sure how I did though. I played The Chosen, The Shepherd on Christmas morning, but I’m not sure how many watched with me. I had a “Teeny Tiny Nativity” on our kitchen counter all week. A worker came into our condo and said she loved it and wondered where we got it (Christian Book Distributors). That was nice.
I have always had this feeling which you describe as a longing for home. It’s as if we are never quite comfortable in our own shoes. I have wondered this, this week. I watched a silly movie where the lead was pondering her upbringing, and how she can’t seem to cry. She realizes it started when her parents got divorced when she was a teen. She never saw it coming and was devastated. It made me think how I sometimes feel that way too, and now I wonder if it’s because I lost my dad at a young age. My husband laments about his childhood home and upbringing. He misses it. I don’t think I would want to relive my adolescence though. It wasn’t always easy or fun as I recall.
Why is it that things become more painful as we age? I am starting to feel that I am getting “old.” I’m not able to do things the way I used to. It is making me reflect on my life a bit. Why did I make certain choices, and am I living the consequences of those choices now? Is this the reason I am suffering? Is it too late to change my ways? Have I been too uncaring to people? Why are my kids the way they are? Have I wasted time on unimportant things? Wow. So many questions. I definitely need heaven! I do tell the grands that we are here on Earth to tell everyone about Jesus and eternal life, and that Jesus left us here to do just that because it’s the most important thing. I hope they remember.
I did not finish last week because I got a flu bug, but I was so happy to hear about your daughter in law, dear Laura! I am continuing to pray for your daughter and for the future of your grandchildren.
I’m so sorry you were sick. That is definitely hard this time of year. Thank you for any prayers ♥️🙏.
Laura — I empathize with regret over younger choices. May the Lord help us to take Paul’s attitude of forgetting those things that are behind and press forward to the mark. I have seen such wonderful things in your life since you have been here these many years!
1. Share a blessing, despite being transitory, that you experienced this last Christmas week.
I was so blessed to be with my daughter, Darcy and her family for the Christmas Season. A special blessing (as I mentioned last week) was having my granddaughter, Hannah and her husband, Tony, here for nearly a week. They stayed with me and it was a wonderful time, filled with many talks about our Lord. So thankful to see these young people so dedicated to serving the Lord in their lives and treating each other so well in their marriage.
2. Can you identify with anything in the above? How have you seen a longing for home in your heart and life?
I can so identify with longing for my real home. How I want to be there right now, yet I feel that the Lord wants me here for this season. I was encouraged in reading Dee’s post about how she has created a community where she is, yet she is the only home that is lived in during the winter months, of thirty houses. I have watched her be courageous in reaching out to others. How I pray that I can do that. I feel quite alone, so much of the time ~ yet I feel that the Lord has a plan. I am pressing into His Word and hope to find more community here. I feel that Darcy is growing closer to the Lord and that is wonderful to see. I know that I am growing closer to Him and trying to let go of thoughts of self.
God Is Always Good and I need to wait on Him.
I have no doubt you will make good friends, Patti. So happy Hannah and Tony were with you, but was so sad to read you got the flu bug!
1. Share a blessing, despite being transitory, that you experienced this last Christmas week. Church this morning was a blended family service. I had slept poorly and because I knew it would be crowded I considered watching online I went anyway and was blessed by the service Children’s choir and their enthusiasm was such a blessing Also ran into people I normally don’t see. God knows best
2. Can you identify with anything in the above? How have you seen a longing for home in your heart and life? Yes, though not disappointed about Christmas I had quite a letdown yesterday. Then soon people will be taking down their lights and it is a dark gloomy time of year here. Though I’d looked forward to holidays being over, I will miss the excitement of children and activities. Yes I’ve been longing for home. I need to quit thinking and saying that life is hard or if I have the thought continue with but I am blessed. So much serious illness in people I know and struggles in their lives. I don’t know how pastors can handle all the demands on their lives to comfort and counsel people and prepare a message each week that some people will nitpick. So looking towards heaven where there is an end to all human suffering is a pretty bright and comforting horizon.
Oh, Judy. I so understand all of these feelings. I pray that we will all look to the Lord and stay in His Word through these dark days when loneliness can set in. I will pray for you, as I can relate.
Thank you and prayers for you that you feel His peace and that you meet and make. new friends. So glad you are near some family.
1. Share a blessing, despite being transitory, that you experienced this last Christmas week. I was able to host Christmas with my family, my mom, 2 siblings & their families, and my step-mom, all together for the first time ever. My dad and step-dad both passed away several years ago. There’s always been animosity between my mom and stepmom. This was a huge blessing to have one Christmas for the first time since my parents divorced more than 40 years ago.
2. Can you identify with anything in the above? How have you seen a longing for home in your heart and life? Oh, yes. I have longed for our eternal home where there will be no more tears and all will be beautiful. I do think CS Lewis is right. We are too easily satisfied. I know the trials in life have brought a closer walk with the Lord, but I sure would never choose them for myself or my loved ones. I can only choose to keep moving forward knowing the Lord has a bigger and better plan for more souls to come to him and look for my part in this.
I’m realizing my point about the CS Lewis quote is not clear. I was quite satisfied with the family I grew up in before the life altering car accident and subsequent divorce, but God had bigger plans for the eternity of our family, which could only grow out of the trials.
Dear Chris, So thankful that you had such a huge blessing of all of these family members together. It is so hard to see God’s plan and perspective when we are in the middle.
I am so happy that you had everyone together for the first time! What a huge blessing 😉!
I’m sure the mom/step/mom relationship is challenging — but good for you for bringing them together. Maybe baby steps toward peace. And we’ll definitely have it in heaven when all sin is out of our hearts and mouths.
Mary in Maryville
scchobbs@hotmail.com
Welcome Mary!
Sunday:
1. Share a blessing, despite being transitory, that you experienced this last Christmas week. – Our Christmas season services at church this year was based on Good News of Great Joy. On Christmas Eve our Pastor started reading Luke 2 in English and multiple members followed him speaking in their native language or the language they learned for their mission work. We had, Turkey, Jamaica, Japan, Philippines, El Salvador, China and so many more. What it made me realize was that so many nations have access to Jesus and His Word and His Church is following his command of going out into the world and making disciples. What a blessing it was to hear the various languages reading God’s Word. It was just amazing to hear it spoken like that.
2. Can you identify with anything in the above? How have you seen a longing for home in your heart and life? – Being away from family is definitely hard at times. When all are together and we aren’t there, makes me feel like I need to go back home. But where is home? The togetherness only lasts a few hours and then everyone goes their own ways. Home, I think is where I can feel the presence of God in my life. It doesn’t mean everything is all rosy. But it does make me feel like I can and will get through whatever comes my way. If I’m not ‘home’ my journey will be more of a struggle and less peace will be found. This is something I need to remember when the longing for Indiana comes to mind.
What a wonderful service at your church, Julie!!
Oh, I so understand about “where is home?” I pray for each of us on this blog to feel the presence of God, wherever we are and that He will go before us and give us courage and peace, knowing we are in His will.
So good– home is where the presence of God is.
Sunday:
1. Share a blessing, despite being transitory, that you experienced this last Christmas week.
The day after Christmas we went over to my son’s house so Jim could help put a gift together that we got our grandsons. Me and my youngest grandson, Micah took the dogs for a long walk. It was amazing to see the world through his eyes and to keep up with all the questions he had. It made me slow down (mentally) and just take it all in and enjoy our time together…a habit I see needs cultivating in my life spiritually and physically…I thank the Lord for blessing me with such a sweet memory.
2. Can you identify with anything in the above?
Losing a child does bring sadness at Christmas which is the bitter, but the sweetness outweighs that as He has blessed me with a strong Christian husband, two children and two grandsons.
How have you seen a longing for home in your heart and life?
When we left Africa and returned to the states I longed to return to Africa…that had become my home and I felt like a foreigner living in the states. I know as a Christian that should be how I feel about my time here on earth which isn’t always the case.
Love the Micah memory.
What a precious time with Micah, Sharon. I love what the Lord can teach us with the simple, fresh and untainted eyes of a child.
Sunday:
1. Share a blessing, despite being transitory, that you experienced this last Christmas week.
I was able to be with our daughter for three days in Kansas City. Although she worked 2 days of the 3 from home, we were able to have some mother-daughter time during the evenings-a movie, dinner at her favorite places, and just being together. It was good to see her on her turf for an extended period and although we differ in so many ways, God has reminded me of the many good things that she does. God is continually teaching me how to have unconditional love for her and others. I am thankful for our daughter, Ruth.
2. Can you identify with anything in the above? How have you seen a longing for home in your heart and life?
I was at a Target shopping for, among other things, some new bras! (I hope this is not TMI and please forgive me. I don’t mean to offend anybody here.) This is such a good place where I know I won’t be judged for my crazy sense of humor. Anyway, what does this have to do with longing for home? Well, this earthly body is falling apart. As I grow older, I do much more for my body to look decent. LOL, I hope you know what I mean here. Every day is a reality check for me on whether I am living for this earthly home or my heavenly home. What a relief and comfort to know that “Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16
I am thankful for many of man’s “discoveries” that helped us with the consequences of growing older. But much more thankful that in our true home, we will not need them anymore. Perfect bodies, being with God, and in harmony with all creation!
Your post made me smile, for you are such a gentle soul.
Bing, So thankful for your sweet time together with Ruth. (Love and relate to your answer to 2.)
I love the time spent with your daughter and shopping for bras. lol. We do still live on earth and I do look forward to the new body in heaven!
Amen, Chris! I can so relate!
3. Read Jeremiah 31:10-14 and describe the land promised and the reaction of God’s people. Why must this point to a better home?
God’s people will shout for joy, they will rejoice in the bounty of the Lord; all things will be renewed and better than the old. So beautiful, like a well watered garden! No sorrow and all mourning will turn into gladness. God will give His people comfort and joy! It points to a new land, where the sorrows, pain and death of this world, will be no more. All will be perfect in the pure light of God.
4. How does it get you excited about the new heaven and new earth?
All the sorrow and pain of this world will be gone. We will live in pure light with no darkness. God’s light will perfect every flaw that is evident on this earth and in the life. We will live and worship in such perfection, it is beyond our imagination! We will be with those we love and in perfect love!
5. Read Jeremiah 31:15. What does it say?
Rachel was weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted because her children were no more.
6. Keller explains there are three times “Rachel” (which can be another name for Israel, the Bride that was Loved) cannot hold on to love. Each time reflects the sorrow and disappointment we can have on earth. Describe the specific sorrow that occurred in each of the passages below:
A. Genesis 35:16-18
Rachel gave birth to her second son, Benjamin. She died at the birth, just as she she named him. The sorrow that she would not raise her second child and the sorrow that Benjamin would never know his mother, who loved him so.
B. Jeremiah 36:15-20 (Ramah is mentioned specifically in Ezra 2:26 — there were 621 exiles from Ramah and Ai)
The prophetic words of Jeremiah on the Scroll, showed that Judah (Israel) would be facing judgment from God for their unfaithfulness.
C. Matthew 2:16-18
When Herod was outwitted by the Magi, he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem, who were two years old or younger. This fulfilled the prophecy of Jeremiah 31:15.
Monday: The Text
3. Read Jeremiah 31:10-14 and describe the land promised and the reaction of God’s people. Why must this point to a better home?
The land will be filled with the Lord’s good gifts…abundant crops of grain, new wine, olive oil, healthy flocks and herds.
This points to a better home as “all their sorrows will be gone, their mourning turned into joy, He will comfort them and exchange their sorrow for rejoicing.”
4. How does it get you excited about the new heaven and new earth?
To be in the presence of the Lord, my Shepherd, who redeemed me with His blood, be given gifts in abundance, have a life like a watered garden and be comforted by Him who will exchange my sorrow for rejoicing…I can’t think of anything better!!!
Longing for Home
Sunday:
1. Share a blessing, despite being transitory, that you experienced this last Christmas week.
—The Christmas Day meal that our family put together and was shared around a beautifully set table was a very special time of blessing. My son-in-law prepared a special cut of meat on his smoker grill. It was seasoned and cooked to perfection. Freshly baked dinner rolls made by my daughter and incredibly good side dishes prepared by my daughter-in-law and a Trifle dessert that I made all came together to what felt like a perfect meal. But above all that was the spirit surrounding the feasting which was there in those moments for that time. I’m grateful we chose to enjoy those brief moments in time and not lament what and who weren’t there. Yes it was very transitory but a sweet sweet memory and a taste of what is to come in Heaven.
2. Can you identify with anything in the above? How have you seen a longing for home in your heart and life?
—I have found that very few people are comfortable talking about the return of Christ. The fact that Jesus is coming back to earth for us. He promised it and it could be soon. I don’t even mean in a theological context of the different eschatological views. But when I speak of my longing for and excitement of seeing Jesus I find an element of resistance. I’m convinced even Christians hang on way to tightly to this life in this world.
Bev, Your Christmas Day meal and fellowship sounds heavenly. Love that the focus was positive.
I love talking about the return of Christ, but I find that some are not comfortable with it. I so look forward to His return and I share your excitement of seeing Jesus and being in the presence of His Light. I love this verse: “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Cor 4:16 All that we can see is not as real as all that we cannot see.
So wise from Bev
I’m grateful we chose to enjoy those brief moments in time and not lament what and who weren’t there.
3. Read Jeremiah 31:10-14 and describe the land promised and the reaction of God’s people. Why must this point to a better home? God’s people will be gathered to him and cared for by him like a shepherd keeps his sheep. The people shall be happy over the goodness of the provision of the Lord-grain, wine, oil, young animals. Life like a watered garden, no more languishing. They will dance and be merry and be comforted in their sorrows. All will be satisfied.
4. How does it get you excited about the new heaven and new earth? Ah, to have the pain and suffering of this world pass, will be a joy.
5. Read Jeremiah 31:15. What does it say? Rachel is weeping for her children, because they are no more.
6. Keller explains there are three times “Rachel” (which can be another name for Israel, the Bride that was Loved) cannot hold on to love. Each time reflects the sorrow and disappointment we can have on earth. Describe the specific sorrow that occurred in each of the passages below:
A. Genesis 35:16-18-Rachel died in childbirth on the way the Ephrath(Bethlehem)
B. Jeremiah 36:15-20 (Ramah is mentioned specifically in Ezra 2:26 — there were 621 exiles from Ramah and Ai) The Lord’s judgement against Israel, Judah and the nations is read from the scroll in the Lord’s house, the people turned to one another in fear. Jeremiah and his scribe were put into hiding and the words were reported to the king.
C. Matthew 2:16-18-All the male children 2 years old and under were killed by Herod
I’m excited for you to hear Keller explain how this points to Jesus, the “final Rachel.”
3. Read Jeremiah 31:10-14 and describe the land promised and the reaction of God’s people. Why must this point to a better home?
There will be much to have and celebrate. New crops, wine, olive oil, flocks and herds will be provided. Sorrows will be gone, men and women will dance. Sorrow will turn to joy. Priests will have many followers.
I’m not sure why it points to a better home directly for us. However it definitely points to a better life for them, as they were persecuted for so long by so many others.
4. How does it get you excited about the new heaven and new earth?
If it is supposed to be a foreshadowing of our future, I love the idea of the comfort of the time. Food, dance, joyful times, no pain, no suffering.
5. Read Jeremiah 31:15. What does it say?
Rachel (Israel) weeps for her children. All those lost and were not able to be with them. She was unable to be comforted by anyone.
6. Keller explains there are three times “Rachel” (which can be another name for Israel, the Bride that was Loved) cannot hold on to love. Each time reflects the sorrow and disappointment we can have on earth. Describe the specific sorrow that occurred in each of the passages below:
A. Genesis 35:16-18
Rachel dies giving birth to a son.
B. Jeremiah 36:15-20 (Ramah is mentioned specifically in Ezra 2:26 — there were 621 exiles from Ramah and Ai)
I’m not sure about this one as being a sorrow🤷🏻♀️. The reading is about a man named Baruch who wrote down messages from the Lord, through Jeremiah, and then took them to the Temple officials and read them to them.
Jeremiah 35 does talk about the Israelites being disobedient and God giving them troubles because of it.
C. Matthew 2:16-18
The sorrow was that all the boys 2 and under were killed by Herod.
3. Read Jeremiah 31:10-14 and describe the land promised and the reaction of God’s people. Why must this point to a better home? They will be radiant over the grain, wine, oil, flock and herd. Their life would be a well watered garden. The people will be joyful as they will have gladness for sorrow. They will be satisfied with the Lord’s goodness People will be satisfied with the Lord’s goodness, and end to striving and searching.
4. How does it get you excited about the new heaven and new earth? The peace that will be in us and surround us because of peace of others.
5. Read Jeremiah 31:15. What does it say? A voice is in heard in Ramah, Rachel is bitterly weeping and lamenting for her children
6. Keller explains there are three times “Rachel” (which can be another name for Israel, the Bride that was Loved) cannot hold on to love. Each time reflects the sorrow and disappointment we can have on earth. Describe the specific sorrow that occurred in each of the passages below:
A. Genesis 35:16-18 Rachel dies giving birth to Benjamin
B. Jeremiah 36:15-20 (Ramah is mentioned specifically in Ezra 2:26 — there were 621 exiles from Ramah and Ai) the words Jeremiah had written in the scroll put the king’s official in fear.
C. Matthew 2:16-18 Herod ordered all male children in Bethlehem under 2 years old be killed.
I’m excited for you to hear Keller explain how this points to Jesus, the “final Rachel.”
MONDAY
3. Read Jeremiah 31:10-14 and describe the land promised and the reaction of God’s people. Why must this point to a better home?
The goodness of the LORD will be showered upon them: wheat, wine, oil, flocks, herds, end to their sorrow. There will be singing, dancing, and rejoicing.
Isn’t this what happened when God’s people returned from Babylon, at least some of them? I can also see the prophetic side after Christ’s return.
4. How does it get you excited about the new heaven and new earth?
All will light in the presence of our Savior, continual worship and rejoicing. Oh, how I am longing for that day!
5. Read Jeremiah 31:15. What does it say?
Rachel is weeping for her children who are not there.
6. Keller explains there are three times “Rachel” (which can be another name for Israel, the Bride that was Loved) cannot hold on to love. Each time reflects the sorrow and disappointment we can have on earth. Describe the specific sorrow that occurred in each of the passages below:
A. Genesis 35:16-18 Rachel died after giving birth, She named the infant before dying, Benoni, which can mean son of my sorrow. Jacob renamed the infant Benjamin.
B. Jeremiah 36:15-20 (Ramah is mentioned specifically in Ezra 2:26 — there were 621 exiles from Ramah and Ai) Bitter weeping and a refusal to be comforted, but God promised to bring her children back from the enemies land, They will repent and the LORD will show them mercy.
C. Matthew 2:16-18 Herod killed all the children two years and younger in Bethlehem and the surrounding areas (just as Pharoah killed the baby boys in Egypt). Matthew says this is a fulfillment of the verse in Jeremiah.
I think there is a typo, Dee for 6. B Didn’t you mean Jeremiah chapter 31, not chapter 36? That’s what I assumed.
Yes — sorry about that!
Now I understand why so many struggled with that question –wrong reference. It should be Jeremiah 31:15-20. This was an internment camp where mothers were separated from their children — thus, Rachel weeping for her children.
Thank you, Dee!!
Monday-continued
5. Read Jeremiah 31:15. What does it say?
Crying, deep anguish and bitter weeping is heard in Ramah – Rachel weeps for her children and refuses to be comforted as her children are gone.
6. Keller explains there are three times “Rachel” (which can be another name for Israel, the Bride that was Loved) cannot hold on to love. Each time reflects the sorrow and disappointment we can have on earth. Describe the specific sorrow that occurred in each of the passages below:
A. Genesis 35:16-18
She died after a hard and intense labor but was told by the midwife before she died that she had a son and with her last breath named the baby Ben-oni which means “son of my sorrow.”
B. Jeremiah 36:15-20 (Ramah is mentioned specifically in Ezra 2:26 — there were 621 exiles from Ramah and Ai)
Did you mean Jeremiah 31:15?…see answer to number 5.
C. Matthew 2:16-18
Rachel weeped and couldn’t be comforted for the children that Herod ordered to have killed because the wise men had outwitted him.=
You caught my wrong reference, Sharon. She my response to Cheryl above. I confused everyone but they did their level best to figure it out!!!
New Year’s Eve: We Were Meant For Home
Listen up to “The Second Thing” or Read the Section “New Year’s Eve.”
7. What stands out to you and why?
His illustration of crashing on Mars, opening the door to take in a breath of fresh air and realizing your lungs weren’t built to take the atmosphere. Why? Because Mars isn’t your home. It doesn’t support us, just as this world doesn’t support us…it’s not home.
I also liked how in his study of prophecy he saw that they were over the top, exorbitant and extravagant. The meaning went beyond just the exile of the people then, but all of us are in a form of exile now and just as God brought the exiles home, He will one day brings us home too.
We took our grandsons to see Mufasa yesterday and I was amazed at how much symbolism there was to the Christian life and especially the journey we make in this life that leads to our eternal and perfect home. There is so much more but I don’t want to spoil it.
8. Choose a few Scriptures that Keller quotes from other prophets that show this is talking about the final return home, to the “New Heaven and New Earth.” How does this give you hope this New Year’s Eve?
Isaiah 35
”…the wilderness will rejoice and blossom (like the garden of Eden…a beautiful scene like this is in the movie Mufasa.) Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the dead unstopped…water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert…the ransomed of the Lord will return. They will enter Zion with singing…sorrow and sighing will flee away.”
Isaiah 11:7 (The whole chapter is wonderful)
”The cow will graze near the bear. The cub and the calf will lie down together. The lion will eat hay like a cow.”
This gives me great hope as my earthly body is aging and this world is in such turmoil…that it all just doesn’t end when I die, but I will live in eternity with the King of kings and the Lord of lords. What a glorious day that will be😊
Just a side note…in Mufasa, the land they’re trying to get to is called “Milele”, which means “forever” in Swahili!!
That’s interesting about Melele.
Oh, that side note means a lot! Like us, we long for a forever home. I remember a Filipina who lived in a town close by. Her daughter died and the mortician who is a close friend of mine called me if I could go and visit with her as her husband was away at the time of the daughter’s death. When I saw her ( for the first time), I hugged her and told her how sorry I was. Amid her grief, all she talked about was how she could get her daughter’s body for burial in the Philippines. She wanted her buried at “home”. I was at a loss and wasn’t able to say much. I did pray with her.
We have bought our burial sites here in my husband’s hometown. As much as I would like to be buried back home, I know my burial ground does not matter. Because at a future date, my body will no longer be there but in my real home with God!
Oh, Sharon! I love this entire post!! Love that Milele means “Forever”!! Thank you for the recommendation! What a day that will be when we are in our eternal and perfect home!! It comforts my heart and soul@@
7. What stands out to you and why?
I am semi-disturbed that Keller chose the two men (Heidegger and Marx) he did to explain that they both agreed on alienation as something to understand before they could relate to the human condition. He speaks of not being able to feel at home, as exiles. Why would he choose these two for the analogy? They aren’t very good people, couldn’t he have chosen a better duo?
8. Choose a few Scriptures that Keller quotes from other prophets that show this is talking about the final return home, to the “New Heaven and New Earth.” How does this give you hope this New Year’s Eve?
He speaks of Ezekiel and Isaiah. Ezekiel says He will gather His people and bring them home. He will turn their hard hearts into fleshy ones, and bring dry bones to life. It will be like the garden of Eden. In Isaiah scripture says, “…the ransomed of the Lord will return…” and that all of nature will rejoice. The blind will have their eyes opened and the deaf will hear. The people will enter Zion. The lamb lies down with the lion. I suppose it includes us as well? It’s interesting that scripture mentions “Assyria.” Is this today’s Syria which has just ousted its nasty leader and is being run by the military? Hmmmm…I don’t know how convinced I am with the idea that it is speaking of us today. I suppose if even Babylon will come out of exile, then so can I. There is hope for me!
Interesting criticism of Keller, Laura. I think often his choices have to do with relating to his New York audience. Though I get your point. I listened to a sermon recently where he was making the point that you can’t just “like” Jesus. Then he quoted Bono who said the same thing and he laughed and said, “You didn’t listen to me – -but you sat us when I quoted Bono.”
That seems logical, about his NY audience. Funny about Bono…
7. What stands out to you and why?
I appreciate that Keller says we will feel like aliens and we are exiles, so that we don’t feel totally at home here. As a Christian, every year I feel like I have less in common with the values of this world. I see concerts people attend, shows they watch, habits and language people use, values they believe in and lifestyles in general that make me feel that I am in a foreign country.
8. Choose a few Scriptures that Keller quotes from other prophets that show this is talking about the final return home, to the “New Heaven and New Earth.” How does this give you hope this New Year’s Eve?
Ezekiel, this is a prediction that he will bring them back out of exile. God says, “… I will gather you from all the countries and bring you back into your own land….. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. ”
Isaiah 35. “… the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. … Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert.… the ransomed of the Lord will return.”
Psalm 87, “I will record Rahab and Babylon among those who acknowledge me … and will say, ‘This one was born in Zion.’ ”
Isaiah 19:… “In that day Israel will be the third, along with Egypt and Assyria … The Lord Almighty will bless them, saying, ‘Blessed be Egypt my people, Assyria my handiwork …’
Since Keller did this sermon, I think a number of things that were foretold, have come to pass. Israel becoming a state and the Jewish people returning to their homeland. I heard Don Stewart speak this morning on how many prophecies have been fulfilled or partially fulfilled in very recent years, mostly since 1948, that are amazing. So many sounded impossible, only a few years ago.
How interesting about the prophecies!
I agree!
Patti, I agree so much about prophecies being fulfilled before our eyes. Even creation is “groaning” with man’s desire to control it. So thankful that God is Lord of history!
. What stands out to you and why? His description of the completeness of the garden of Eden. Every one of our capacities intellectually, aesthetically, scissors, psychological, spiritual and emotional was absolutely supported. I had know idea or ever thought of that I always like that God walked with Adam and Eve in the cool of the evening, but had never considered the all encompassing effect of that fellowship.
8. Choose a few Scriptures that Keller quotes from other prophets that show this is talking about the final return home, to the “New Heaven and New Earth.” How does this give you hope this New Year’s Eve? Isaiah 35, eyes of blind opened, lame leaping like deer, dead have hearing. Isaiah 11. Wolf lives with the lamb, leopard will lay down with the goat, a little child will lead them. A young child will put its hand in the viper’s nest. They will neither harm nor destroy on My holy mountain, for the earth will be filled with the knowledge of God as the waters cover the sea. The very best day on earth will be as nothing compared to the glory that awaits us.
New Year’s Eve
7. What stands out to you and why? “We were meant for home.” That short sentence at the end of the section really resonated with me. I do feel like an exile at times, longing for my real home. Our world is such a convoluted mess, my soul is vexed at times, like Lot. Only the Lord can make things right.
8. Choose a few Scriptures that Keller quotes from other prophets that show this is talking about the final return home, to the “New Heaven and New Earth.” How does this give you hope this New Year’s Eve?
I selected Isaiah 35 and read the entire chapter. The last verse, verse 10 says,
And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
The joy that leaped up in my heart upon reading this verse ignited great hope within me. Joy and gladness, no sorrow/sighing. oh that promise! It seems I could face almost anything knowing the joy that awaits me. The lord knows what lies ahead for 2025, I need not fear or worry.
1. Read Jeremiah 31:10-14 and describe the land promised and the reaction of God’s people. Why must this point to a better home?
It will be called Zion and will be a bountiful land, grain, new wine and olive oil; there will be great rejoicing! No more mourning/sorrow but instead joy
Old and young alike will dance (hah! I need to put on my old dancing shoes for practice now!)
2. How does it get you excited about the new heaven and new earth?
I am looking forward to it!!! Laboring but not getting tired, harmony with all of creation, no physical needs, contentment (hard to imagine! “However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him.” I Cor 2:9
3. Read Jeremiah 31:15. What does it say?
This is what the LORD says: “A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.”
6. Keller explains there are three times “Rachel” (which can be another name for Israel, the Bride that was Loved) cannot hold on to love. Each time reflects the sorrow and disappointment we can have on earth. Describe the specific sorrow that occurred in each of the passages below:
A. Genesis 35:16-18
Rachel’s difficulty in childbirth (of Benjamin) and dying from it.
B. Jeremiah 31:15-20 (Ramah is mentioned specifically in Ezra 2:26 — there were 621 exiles from Ramah and Ai)
Israel’s exile. The discipline of God.
C. Matthew 2:16-18
Babies who were 2 years and under were killed per the order of Herod upon receiving news that the Magi had outwitted him.
Instead of making resolutions today, I’m praying for the Lord’s wisdom for 2025. May the Lord guide us here too.
I love this, Dee. I am going to do that. Resolutions are broken and forgotten quickly-life gets in the way. Praying for direction is more positive and something to keep building on. Thank you for sharing. I am praying to look forward; a friend sent me a cute cartoon that said “don’t look back, you are not going there.”
That’s good. Forgetting those things that are behind and pressing on.
Oh, Patti! I love this: “don’t look back, you are not going there.”
Yes, I love this, too, Dee. I love what Paul Tripp wrote in his “Wednesday Word” devotional for today. He said, “To be completely candid, I’m not the biggest believer in New Year’s resolutions or making life-changing commitments just because the calendar has a new number on it. Personal and spiritual growth doesn’t rest its hope on grand declarations of change. Heart and life transformation is almost always a process and rarely an event. That process takes place in the 10,000 little moments of everyday life, and that day could be any day of the year, because:
This I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.(Lamentations 3:21-23)
Then he went on to encourage the reader to spend time in God’s Word.
I agree with this 100%
New Year’s Eve: We Were Meant For Home
Listen up to “The Second Thing” or Read the Section “New Year’s Eve.”
7. What stands out to you and why?
—Keller points out that Jeremiah lived in a fragmented culture which was a culture that didn’t have any consensus about what was wrong and what was right. That is the very same situation that we are living in today in our very own culture. As he said we live in a fragmented culture with various competing visions of reality. It makes it easy to identify with Jeremiah.
8. Choose a few Scriptures that Keller quotes from other prophets that show this is talking about the final return home, to the “New Heaven and New Earth.” How does this give you hope this New Year’s Eve?
—Jeremiah 31:13b says “I will turn their
mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.”
Isaiah 35:10 says “They will enter Zion with singing … sorrow and
sighing will flee away.”
We don’t have to throw up our hands in despair over this fallen broken world because we were meant for a home and we are promised a home and I find grest hope in these prophesies from God’s Word.
New Year’s Day: We Have Lost Our Home
Listen up to “How Are We Going To Get Home” or read that far on the transcript.
9. What stands out and why?
—He basically says that mankind had a home but they went into exile and lost it because of Genesis 3 “where we chose to be our own bosses, our own masters, essentially our own lords,…”. That speaks to sin which sent us into exile.
10. Keller said the things the philosopher Camus said have stuck with him — what did he say and how could you apply it?
—He explained that nobody wants to actually face the implications of death. And the most basic desire of our hearts is to have love last. To have beauty last. When we do something right to have it count forever. But this world can’t be home be because it cannot sustain and support the most basic need we have.
I feel when we come to understand and accept the truth that this world is not our real home and set our sights and our hearts on where our true home is it actually frees us up from the entanglements of this world. I think of Jesus saying “I go to prepare a place for you.” And he talks about his Father’s house. Houses are the places where we make ourselves at home. That is where I place my hope. In being with Jesus in that place he has prepared in his Father’s house.
11. What was the point of the movie “Trip to Bountiful?” Have you ever tried to “go home again” and been disappointed?
—I live just 10 short miles from where the house is that I grew up in. We occasionally drive through my “hometown” and I can see the place but today it is a junky rundown house.
So it has been apparent for a number of years to me that I can’t go back “home”. It could cause a sense of despair if I were not secure in my understanding of where my “real” home is.
12. What does Lewis say must be true since we have this longing for a perfect home — and why?
—Since I long for a perfect home the only possible explanation is that my real home is somewhere else.
__________
I keep having this old Country song from my childhood going through my mind as I answered the questions for this lesson. It is called “This World is not my Home” by Jim Reeves. https://youtu.be/4ndMZqT6i4I?si=0UNg8ziWiWoRtlOx
“I feel when we come to understand and accept the truth that this world is not our real home and set our sights and our hearts on where our true home is it actually frees us up from the entanglements of this world. ” Bev, that says it exactly. Your words remind me of Galatians 5:1 where Paul says, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.”
7. What stands out to you and why? The mars illustration and this life not being able to support us. We were made for our true home and this one will never compare.
8. Choose a few Scriptures that Keller quotes from other prophets that show this is talking about the final return home, to the “New Heaven and New Earth.” How does this give you hope this New Year’s Eve? The prophecies point to a place that can hardly be described in our terms. The prophecies are over the top as Keller says. We can’t imagine the beauty and completeness of the space God has prepared for us.
9. What stands out and why? The garden of Eden being our perfect home and how we were sent into exile after sin. We are still in exile and no matter how we try to beautify our place of exile, we will never truly be home until we make it to heaven.
10. Keller said the things the philosopher Camus said have stuck with him — what did he say and how could you apply it? No one wants to face death, and we all try to avoid it. With all the death we have faced in our family the children are really working to try to understand these things. This world has to be our connection to heaven, by what we do here. By being kind to others, by helping those in need, sharing the gospel most of all, THIS is how we experience heaven on earth. How do we help ourselves and these little children understand that we were not meant to live here and that although we don’t want to leave those we love (and we don’t want them to leave us), we are all going to a better place, a place we really belong, a place better than anything. One of my granddaughters said to me yesterday, I don’t like this earth, people are always mean to me. I replied with, in heaven people will always be nice. To which my 7 year old son replied, yeah, but then you will be dead and I said, yes, but in heaven we will have new bodies that live forever in a perfect place. I haven’t convinced him yet that heaven will be better. It’s the leaving here, the place he knows, the people he loves, that he hates.
11. What was the point of the movie “Trip to Bountiful?” Have you ever tried to “go home again” and been disappointed? The disappointment of what you find, not measuring up to what you remember as a child. Home in your mind is so much more beautiful than what you find later. Yes, my childhood home is a shambles. My son now lives in my old neighborhood and he is making a beautiful home, but the home I grew up in is a rental that is unkept- so sad.
12. What does Lewis say must be true since we have this longing for a perfect home — and why? We must belong somewhere else, since this world does not satisfy
I have no idea why my comments ended up here. lol
Thanks Bev for sharing this song…my Mom and Aunt used to sing that as a duet…the memories that brought back. Wow! 😊
Bev, I remember this old old song! The words are so true! Thank you so much for sharing!
Bev, I thought of that very song! Dad used to sing that song when we were growing up!
From Bev:
I feel when we come to understand and accept the truth that this world is not our real home and set our sights and our hearts on where our true home is it actually frees us up from the entanglements of this world
New Year’s Day: We Have Lost Our Home
Listen up to “How Are We Going To Get Home” or read that far on the transcript.
9. What stands out and why?
10. Keller said the things the philosopher Camus said have stuck with him — what did he say and how could you apply it?
Keller summed up what Camus said…”Hardly anybody wants to actually face the implications of death…don’t want to think about it so they eat, travel and do things.”
It is a fact of life…I’m going to die. I do think God gave us things to enjoy but our main focus should be Him, living in His will and looking forward to spending eternity with Him.
11. What was the point of the movie “Trip to Bountiful?” Have you ever tried to “go home again” and been disappointed?
We’ll be disappointed if we think we can go back to a place where we felt secure, loved and happy and think it will fulfill our needs now.
I received a video from a friend who went back to Africa where I grew up, showing the ruins of the home I so fondly remember…the things of this world are temporary and won’t fulfill our longing for home.
12. What does Lewis say must be true since we have this longing for a perfect home — and why?
Real home is somewhere else, so don’t be despondent. We need to understand what our longing for home means.
Still, that must have been hard to see that video! I admit I love my home here on the lake and would be so sad to see it demolished, even though I know it is not truly my home.
Yes, it was hard but in watching the video I noticed my Moms rose garden was still thriving…that amazed me!
That is so amazing!! The rose garden is thriving!
New year’s Day
9. What stands out and why?
“…being hungry proves there is such a thing as food.” CS Lewis Exactly, people seem to always be trying to satisfy a spiritual hunger in a way that is lasting, and it’s a futile endeavor.
10. Keller said the things the philosopher Camus said have stuck with him — what did he say and how could you apply it?
“…nobody wants to face the implications of death.” I apply it by going to the Bible, physical death isn’t something I fear.
1 John 5:11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
Colossians 3:2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
But, there is another application in how I view the people in the world around me. The frantic race to get more, to be more, to find happiness and love, is in the final analysis (Camus/Keller) a race to avoid facing the implication of death.
11. What was the point of the movie “Trip to Bountiful?” Have you ever tried to “go home again” and been disappointed? You won’t find happiness in the past. What you experienced in your childhood or younger years cannot be captured again, Everything changes, nothing stays the same.
12. What does Lewis say must be true since we have this longing for a perfect home — and why?
“Then why don’t you feel at home here? The only possible explanation is real home is somewhere else.” , and we KNOW where that ‘somewhere’ is, don’t we sisters? Praise the Lord for His saving grace!!!!
This is so interesting to reflect upon:
But, there is another application in how I view the people in the world around me. The frantic race to get more, to be more, to find happiness and love, is in the final analysis (Camus/Keller) a race to avoid facing the implication of death.
Amen to Dee, Cheryl! I think this a great takeaway from this lesson!! Thank you!
9. What stands out and why? The Bible says the home your heart seeks even remembers its never had as an individual memory. It’s the collective memory of Eden, of God Interesting and new thought for me, but it explains the yearning a person experiences viewing a beautiful sunset or golden hour on a lake
10. Keller said the things the philosopher Camus said have stuck with him — what did he say and how could you apply it? Keller used lion king and song Circle of Life as an example. We die and become fertilizer supporting the next life after us until they die and become fertilizer. Camus says we long for lasting love and beauty I don’t know how to apply other than to be thankful that earth is not my home and God has created a place in me that longs for Him and His home. This is not all there is.
11. What was the point of the movie “Trip to Bountiful?” Have you ever tried to “go home again” and been disappointed? That our memories sometimes amplify the beauty of the past and cause us to overlook the hurt and reality. Israelites wanted to go back to slavery in Egypt ignoring the beatings and oppression from slavery. Sometimes I’ve been surprised. I came from low income farming area and I smile when I have driven by the now modest homes that I envied and thought were where rich people lived.
12. What does Lewis say must be true since we have this longing for a perfect home — and why? That there’s a perfect home. We’re not just the product of material universe. Fish don’t complain about being wet. We feel wet when we get in water because we aren’t aquatic creatures. We don’t feel at home here because our real home is somewhere else.
Great summary sentence: We don’t feel at home here because our real home is somewhere else.
1. Share a blessing, despite being transitory, that you experienced this last Christmas week. Getting to spend another Christmas with my dad.
2. Can you identify with anything in the above? Yes. I loved Trip to Bountiful, although I didn’t recognize until years later that it portrays how we are all longing for “home”. How have you seen a longing for home in your heart and life? Every time I experience anything negative, I try to remember to give thanks to God that these experiences point me to the reality that this life is short and eternity free from all of the bad will be forever and that the negativity of this life serve to enhance my appreciation of that glorious eternity that we were made for.
Praising God with you, Dawn for another year with your Dad.
Dawn — great way to look at hard things of life.
What a gift and a blessing to have Christmas with your dad, Dawn. I love your perspective on life, when negative things happen. Such a great way to see life here compared to eternity with Jesus.
9. What stands out and why?
10. Keller said the things the philosopher Camus said have stuck with him — what did he say and how could you apply it?
Camus says that most of us don’t want to think about dying so we don’t. We live. Too much. We want love to last. We want the beauty to last. It doesn’t. We are slowly dying away. This place can’t sustain us. It’s because it isn’t our real home.
I can have the hope of my real home always in the back of my mind, to remind me of when really important in life. Not the money, fame or anything else.
11. What was the point of the movie “Trip to Bountiful?” Have you ever tried to “go home again” and been disappointed?
The woman thinks all will be well if she can just get back to her childhood home. It isn’t the same when she returns.
I have visited my childhood homes to see how they are after I left for a long period of time. Things are different. People are gone. I have been disappointed.
12. What does Lewis say must be true since we have this longing for a perfect home — and why?
Our real home is not here on Earth. None will satisfy us here. We need to be with God. That’s where our real home is found
9. What stands out and why?
I love the Keller’s mention of Psalm 90:1-2 “Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” Thinking about this, shows me the importance of continually seeing that God is my true and only home. I think of this so often as my life has changed in every facet this past two years. There is no going home, only going closer to God and my true eternal home.
10. Keller said the things the philosopher Camus said have stuck with him — what did he say and how could you apply it?
Keller urges us not to think like Camus ~ I remember when I was in high school thinking….If I could just have this…or be this…or find love forever…. There is nothing we can attain in this world that will remain, so it is futile and wasteful to have those goals…but it is also a waste of life to try to do that. Loving God, living for God, knowing Jesus and doing His will are the only things that seem to give satisfaction in this life, because these are the only things that will lead to eternal life and eternal joy. We cannot get or retain control of this life; we can only choose how to get through it successfully. Money and power never seem to bring inner peace and joy. I love this verse: Psalm 107:9 for He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” I need to stay in His Word and study His Word to have what He offers…..think
11. What was the point of the movie “Trip to Bountiful?” Have you ever tried to “go home again” and been disappointed?
We can never go home~ I spent a lot of time at my aunt’s home (in a small town in Minnesota) when I was a small child. I remember how I loved it and felt so secure there. I could hear the train whistle at night, as I went to sleep in my room. When I was older (like a teen), I asked my parents if we could go see that sweet farm and the house that seemed like a huge house. Oh, my! It had changed (my aunt and her family had moved out of state years before). It was a wake up call at a young age an it stuck with me forever.
12. What does Lewis say must be true since we have this longing for a perfect home — and why?
C.S. Lewis said that the reason we long for home and cannot truly find it here, is because our real home is somewhere else.
“There is no going home, only going closer to God and my true eternal home.” This statement is so true. But also so encouraging. 💕😊
Patti, your comment about your aunt’s home reminded me of a visit I took to the river my grandparents lived on growing up. We didn’t go to their home, but for Father’s Day, I got the family together except for my grandpa who passed, and we took a pontoon ride down the river (like old times) and we all relived the memories on that river. Just the smell brings you back-so distinct. I still love to visit a park on the river whenever I can. It is so bitter sweet. Much heart ache but also much love in that place. It’s where I really learned that this life can hold so much sadness and grief, but also the endearing love of family. It also reminds me that this world will never give what the Lord can give and I do yearn for the Eden the Lord has for us.
Oh, Chris! Your reflection gave me goose bumps. Sweet memories.
Beautiful posts of memories past of a home that was special from Chris and Patti.
Thursday: How Are We Going to Get Home?
Listen or read up to “What will life be like there?”
13. What stands out and why?
That Jesus was the ultimate Rachel. He died in labor, so we can be born again. I so enjoy how Keller connects the dots!
14. Give an illustration from your own life on how your sin alienated you from someone, but repentance closed the gap.
I don’t know if alienate is the right word but I know it put distance/avoidance between my Dad and I. Once I repented, our relationship was restored. We became close and our conversations were centered around the Lord, the Word, prayer and how He was working in each of our lives. I really miss him and those special conversations.
15. Explain how Jesus was the final Rachel!
See #13
Me too. I love that you love that too, Sharon.
Thursday: How Are We Going to Get Home?
Listen or read up to “What will life be like there?”
13. What stands out and why?
—Keller gives 3 examples from the Scripture of Rachel weeping and Jesus is the third one. That stood out to me as Keller said that He was the ultimate Rachel who was going to die in labor so we could be born again.
And as he was cast out and went into exile it was the reason we could be brought in. He went to prepare a place but the place he went was the Cross. I always viewed that comment as the place being prepared after the Cross. In other words that He was going and preparing a place in Heaven. But in going to the place of the Cross the result was He opened the way into the Father’s house which is the place we all long for. The Father’s house with its many rooms was already there and it is the home our hearts have always been longing for. I find a much deeper meaning in what Jesus was saying in this teaching and much less inclined to chase the will-o’-wisps.
14. Give an illustration from your own life on how your sin alienated you from someone, but repentance closed the gap.
—There was a time in years past that I carried unforgiveness and bitterness in my heart toward my oldest brother but when I repented of my hardness of heart toward him God in his magnificence grace has brought about a warm and meaningful relationship between us in these later years. We both are greatly different because of Jesus.
15. Explain how Jesus was the final Rachel!
—I talked about this in my answer to question 13.
As I have been thinking about home the timing of this teaching for me personally takes on greater meaning. My husband and I have lived in our home in Nebraska for almost 35 years. We have made it a place of comfort and we welcome people into our home. I’m always amazed by how often someone steps in the front door and says “I like your house”. Our home is not large or pretentious but as I’ve tried to analyze why I often hear that response I’ve come to the conclusion it is because I have attempted to just make it an uncluttered and comfortable space with light and colors that are pleasing to the eye. I personally am comfortable in my home. But I often sit in my living room where people first enter and think how temporary it is and that it is not lasting. Even now while we are in Texas because it is forty years old there is need of repair and we are have repairs and some bathroom remodeling done on it. So in the mean time while down here in Texas we are living in a two room Casita. Our temporary “home” for three months. It is small and very basic and definitely not fancy. But we are content in this place because God called us to come down here to be with family members that he gave us. Children and grandchildren who are as broken and messy as we are and some of them really need Jesus. And we want them to know about the Eternal “home” that can be theirs because of Jesus.
Bev, this whole post is so good and I love how you described your “casita,” I would say your contentment comes from serving God and being used for His glory…awesome!
I love the differentiation of your home and the “casita” you live in for now. What a beautiful picture of contentment wherever you go. The most beautiful home while on earth is the home that God gives to us in any season of our lives.
Bing, this is a powerful statement you made. “The most beautiful home while on earth is the home that God gives to us in any season of our lives.” It made me think of my Mom who at age 90 moved from her house and home of many years into a one bedroom apartment in a Senior living complex. When we were visiting the apartments available at the time my sister and I thought she needed a bigger two bedroom one but she walked into the little apartment and looked around and said to us “Who really needs anything more than this?” She enjoyed 8 years in that beautiful little apartment her last home here on earth.
Wonderful testimony Bev.
New Year’s Day: We Have Lost Our Home
Listen up to “How Are We Going To Get Home” or read that far on the transcript.
9. What stands out and why?
In Mars, death is quick whereas here on Earth, death is slow. Either way, this is not home for us who believe in Jesus.
10. Keller said the things the philosopher Camus said have stuck with him — what did he say and how could you apply it?
Nobody wants to face the implications of death. We try thinking of “Lion King”, the circle of life. Our basic desire is for beauty and love that lasts. But we don’t get it here. These desires can only be met in the new Heaven and new Earth.
I shall not set my heart on things here on earth that are just destined to rot. I shall set my heart on things above-holiness, righteousness, and love for God and others.
R.C. Sproul said, “To live in Coram Deo” “to live coram Deo is to live one’s entire life in the presence of God, under the authority of God, to the glory of God.
11. What was the point of the movie “Trip to Bountiful?” Have you ever tried to “go home again” and been disappointed?
The movie was about a lady’s quest to find happiness in life. If she could just go back to Bountiful, her birthplace, which she did, she would be happy. But everything in “Bountiful” was not the way she remembered it. It did not bring the happiness she thought would be possible.
This summer, my daughter and I went “home” to the Philippines. I was excited about many things. When we got there, many places were unfamiliar to me. Only the company of my daughter made the trip so worthwhile and went to several places, but the “home” feeling was because my daughter was with me. When we got back to the U.S., home was where my husband was. Family, where home is. And it will be a perfect home when the family of God are together in the same place from one negation to another! Oh, rabbit trailing!
12. What does Lewis say must be true since we have this longing for a perfect home — and why?
We are not made for this world.
Bing! I love to rabbit trail. 😊
Again you give us beautiful insight to the importance of family being an important part of where home is. We come to Texas to be with and interact with family down here but leaving Nebraska for the extended time was a little hard because of the family and church family we have up there.
Love this from Bing on her trip “home” to changed Philippines — “the home feeling was because my daughter was with me”
Thursda
13. What stands out and why? A lot of what Keller is saying does not make perfect sense to me. I suppose the applications are there, but to state them as absolute interpretation, I think, is a stretch, One example is saying that Jesus was exiled. An exile is a forced removal, but Jesus willingly left heaven to come to earth. Yes, He took our sins upon Himself, but no one forced Him at any point.
14. Give an illustration from your own life on how your sin alienated you from someone, but repentance closed the gap. Years ago I was part of a church worship team, I signed the music. One Sunday as we were singing/signing I noticed a woman beautifully worshipping the Lord, I was enthralled. I left the dais and tried to get her to come up with us (wanting others to be blessed by her), and she resisted my attempts. I was ashamed afterwards when I realized that I was interrupting her worship of the Lord. I apologized to her and prayed about my behavior. She forgave me. I still felt bad about it and spoke to the worship leader. “Have you apologized and asked forgiveness? Then walk in that forgiveness.”
15. Explain how Jesus was the final Rachel! Keller says that when Jesus wept over Jerusalem, as a mother would weep for lost children, He is the final Rachel.
Good point about Jesus choosing to leave His home.
I’d have to look again — but might Keller have been referring to “he came to His own but His own received Him not?” Perhaps not.
I guess I looked at it as the Father exiled Him 🤷🏻♀️. But I get what you’re saying too.
13. What stands out and why?
It amazes me that scholars of the Bible can take so much out of scripture that I don’t even realize as I read. The part about Jesus being put on a cross outside the city, being set apart from God, so that we can be accepted is truly something I would never have thought of myself.
14. Give an illustration from your own life on how your sin alienated you from someone, but repentance closed the gap.
I can think of several (gulp) times I have made mistakes and sinned against another. It has happened with my husband and he and I repented, and are still together for 35 years. It has not been easy, but we are committed.
15. Explain how Jesus was the final Rachel!
Rachel gave her body over to have her child. Jesus gave His life for us.
Friday: What Will Life Be Like There?
16. Read Jeremiah 31:31-34 and explain the fundamental difference that will be in us in the New Heaven and New Earth.
—God will write on our hearts his perfect law and instructions about himself. We won’t need to be taught about Him because we will know him firsthand. We will be completely forgiven of all our sin and He will forget our sin. Our relationship to Him will be complete and perfect.
17. Read or listen to the end and share what stands out and why.
—We can visit our true spiritual home through prayer. That was a new way of thinking for me. When we experience God’s presence through prayer we can feel at home with Him. As I think about my own experiences in prayer I realize it is when I spend time in praise and thanksgiving that my heart feels most united to the Lord. For me the place of quiet rest is being alone with God in prayer.
18. Meditate and share your thoughts on the following John Newton quote:
“Our pleasure and our duty, though opposite before, since we have seen his beauty, are joined to part no more.”
—I like the way Keller puts it. “When you see the sacrifice of Jesus giving himself to you … the ultimate Rachel weeping in labor, dying in labor so you could be born, the ultimate exile so you could be brought in … that writes the law on your hearts. The law does not become something out here I have to do to please this big God up here. The law becomes something I want to do to please and delight the one who has done this beautiful thing for me. The Holy Spirit burns it into your heart. It becomes you. It becomes the thing you want. It’s a whole new relationship.”
—Everything comes to full center when a person sees Jesus for Who
He really is.
19. Read carefully about how Keller tells us to “visit our true home by prayer.” Explain.
—He talks about the stability we can have in our lives through prayer in spite of the troubles we have here on earth in its broken condition ruled by disintegration and death. In Him we find our hope which as I said above centers us because there is a day and time coming that God himself is coming back and going to make the world whole again. He is going to get rid of death and renew all things. When we see Jesus and spend time in his Word and in prayer we are given power to live out what we know.
From Bev:
As I think about my own experiences in prayer I realize it is when I spend time in praise and thanksgiving that my heart feels most united to the Lord. For me the place of quiet rest is being alone with God in prayer.
Friday: What Will Life Be Like There?
16. Read Jeremiah 31:31-34 and explain the fundamental difference that will be in us in the New Heaven and New Earth.
His instructions will be deep within us, and He will write them on our hearts. He’ll be our God and we’ll be His people. Everyone from the least to the greatest will already know Him. He will forgive our wickedness, and He will never again remember our sins.
Friday
17. Read or listen to the end and share what stands out and why.
”…Covenant is a word for relationship. A new covenant means I’m going to give you a far more intimate relationship with me than you’ve ever had before.” Because of this new covenant we have a glimpse of home…thank You Jesus.
18. Meditate and share your thoughts on the following John Newton quote:
“Our pleasure and our duty, though opposite before, since we have seen his beauty, are joined to part no more.”
Knowing that Jesus was the perfect and only sacrifice that could atone for my sins is amazing. I am no longer under the law but under grace and the desire of my heart is to be obedient not because that is what saves me but rather out of love and pleasure, which drives me to be in His presence and serve Him.
19. Read carefully about how Keller tells us to “visit our true home by prayer.” Explain.
This is a concept that was new to me but oh so true. Prayer draws us to boldly and humbly come before His throne, pour out our hearts and speak back to him the truth and promises from His Word…a relationship where honesty and feeling safe can develop and I think of home as being a safe place!
16. Read Jeremiah 31:31-34 and explain the fundamental difference that will be in us in the New Heaven and New Earth.
God makes a new covenant with His people. He writes it into their hearts. He will not lead them out of their misery, rather let them choose to be led by Him. He will forgive the wickedness within them. It’s a beautiful, ew relationship with Him.
17. Read or listen to the end and share what stands out and why.
We will finally see God face to face and it will be amazing as well as comfortable. We will say to ourselves this is where I am suppose to be, in Eden, with Him. Finally. I can’t wait for that feeling. I have such a small family and a lot of times I feel alone. This makes me excited that I will feel as if I belong.
18. Meditate and share your thoughts on the following John Newton quote:
“Our pleasure and our duty, though opposite before, since we have seen his beauty, are joined to part no more.”
We will want to please and be faithful to God.
19. Read carefully about how Keller tells us to “visit our true home by prayer.” Explain.
We can have time with Him during prayer, and get glimpses of what the end home will be like if we don’t always have “give me” prayers. We can ask for His presence so we can experience our true “home.”
We also can spend time “renovating” our true home, which is really going to be here, when Jesus returns. Use our resources to make things a better place. Be generous. Eradicate terrible things like homelessness. Our “stuff” doesn’t have the capacity to hold the weight of our soul when we die. We don’t need all the stuff when we have our Lord. He is home.
20. What’s your take-a-way and why?
I am not home yet. This is such a hopeful thought for me. It is coming!
And, of course we must listen to Chris Tomlin!
https://youtu.be/YIb4NC5ikYo?si=yKz2449k4C2hXqFU
Perfect song to close our week, Laura!
Agree with Dee…thanks Laura👍🏻😊
Amen Dee and Sharon. Perfect, Laura!!
Thank you, Laura, for the song! Indeed, this world is not our home!
Saturday:
20. What’s your take-a-way and why?
Dee, thanks for doing this lesson…such a great way to start the year, heavenly minded!
I wanted to share these quotes from Samuel Rutherford that I came across in my reading this week that went so well with our study here.
”When we shall come home and enter to the possession of our Brother’s fair kingdom, and when our heads shall find the weight of the eternal crown of glory, and when we shall look back to pains and sufferings; then shall we see life and sorrow to be less than one step or stride from a prison to glory; and that our little inch of time suffering is not worthy of our first night’s welcome home to heaven.”
”We smell of the smoke of this lower house of the earth, because our hearts and our thoughts are here. If we could mount up with God, we should smell of heaven and of our country above, and we should look like our country, and like strangers or people not born or brought up near this place. Our crosses would not bite upon us, if we were heavenly minded.”
Wow! What a beautiful and perfect quote to complete this week, Sharon! Thank you! I ordered this book and I just received it a few days ago! Thank you for all that you shared this week, every word was meaningful to me.
Sharon, I too, love the quotes you shared from Rutherford. “…one step or stride from prison to glory. our little inch of time suffering is not worthy of our first night’s welcome home to heaven.” These words are so beautiful!
20. What’s your take-a-way and why?
This lesson was so important for me, personally, this week. I loved Keller’s sermon on Heaven. How I long for my real home, in God’s time. After moving in October, my entire life and everything I have known all of my life, has changed. I am in a new home, in a new town, alone in my home and it has been a bit overwhelming. My daughter and her husband live 2 miles from me and I am so grateful for them! They have been so good to me and introducing me to a new church, new friends, new stores, and more. I have never felt or been this alone, yet I know that this is not my permanent home. I do feel like a foreigner, as I left many of my close friends and everything familiar and a place where I had lived since I was in college. It is all behind me and I am wondering what I am here for and what am I to do for the Lord. I know He has a plan and I will wait on Him. I do feel His peace and presence, yet I still have times of great loneliness. I have loved reading all of your posts and I love the song that Laura shared. What a wonderful group of ladies on this Blog, all with different life experiences in all parts of the world. Thank you each for sharing your stories. I have read and re-read them. We truly are each alone, ultimately~ yet, with sisters in Christ, we are together. God is always faithful and I pray that I continue to hear His still small voice as He directs me each day. I am Praising Him for all He is doing in my life and I am trusting Him each step of the way. In my life, Lord, be glorified today.
Patti, you continue to be in my prayers and I’m so glad that you’re so close to your daughter. Loss and change is so hard, but this study and seeing it through your experience has made me see the importance of keeping my eyes upon Him. I thank the Lord for you and all the sweet ladies here as I continue to learn so much through all that is shared.
Patti, your loneliness must be so hard, yet part of what the Lord is using to draw you so close to Him now. I have no doubt he will use that. Love to you, my friend.
The Lord is so good! Thank you Sharon and Chris. Yes, keeping my eyes on Him is so healing! I agree, I learn so much through all your sharing! All Glory to God!
Your faithfulness continues to inspire me, Patti! I thank God for you!
20. What’s your take-a-way and why?
Wow. What a great job Keller does with this message. New thoughts for me for sure. I accidentally deleted all my answers to questions, so just summarizing here. The idea of Jesus being the ultimate Rachel in going to the cross for us and how that changed our relationship is so helpful to think about. No more law, but a new covenant where we act out of gratitude for what Christ has done. Our lives are wound up in this with all our relationships. We want others to know him. We don’t want sin anymore. We long for our eternal home and are upset by the injustice we face here, yet strive to achieve fulfillment here in material ways-but it’s all a loss until we reach heaven. I love the Chris Tomlin song-Heard it before but means more now. I now understand better how Jesus wept for Jerusalem in light of this lesson. Also, his being an exile, all of this. This also, makes so much sense to me, about my desire to have things whole-like my marriage and why I’m still so sad about my parents divorce and the DEATH of babies 😭. The heartache of that loss, as it should never be, BUT the hope we have in CHRIST and HEAVEN! We must still trudge through this life, but we have hope of our eternal home! Praise the Lord.
Beautiful summary of this great lesson, Chris! Praise the Lord!
Yes, Chris! You summarized this study beautifully!
Agree with Patti and Bing…such a great summary written from the depths of your heart❤️
Thursday: How Are We Going to Get Home?
Listen or read up to “What will life be like there?”
13. What stands out and why?
The metaphor of Jesus as the final Rachel blew my mind! I would not have put that together with the Rachels weeping before she died or the mothers weeping for their children while in exile.
Jesus suffered exile because of my sin so he can open the door to my eternal home.
14. Give an illustration from your own life on how your sin alienated you from someone, but repentance closed the gap.
I struggled with having to do home care for a lady in our town because Richard volunteered my nursing services. I was impatient with him and was tempted to make snide remarks. I do not like being called on as a nurse for “free” advice on new technology. I was mumbling to myself while I was researching what to do. I know I could have refused to do it. But this hard knot on my chest told me I needed to work on my attitude. I “forced” myself to pray even though I did not like it but knew it was the right thing to do. On our way to the lady’s house, God changed my heart. I repented of my bad attitude there and then. We had a lovely visit after I helped her and the distance I created between me and my husband was gone and I had a deeper appreciation of him for believing in my nursing skills.
15. Explain how Jesus was the final Rachel!
He wept for us, for our alienation from the Father because of our own doing. He died for us just as Rachel died when giving birth to Benjamin. Jesus labored and died for us so we can be born again. He suffered exile so we can be brought home. Jesus put a stop to all our weepings!
Bing, I so appreciate your transparency in your answer to 14 and how you allowed God to work in your heart…you encourage me so much!
Friday: What Will Life Be Like There?
16. Read Jeremiah 31:31-34 and explain the fundamental difference that will be in us in the New Heaven and New Earth.
Oh, what a promise for each one of us: we will be no longer dependent on others to experience God because His covenant will be forever in our hearts. No more need for sacrifices, sin is no longer present (sanctified). We will all be in harmony, no more longings because the One who fulfills them is in our midst!
17. Read or listen to the end and share what stands out and why.
The law becomes something I want to do to please and delight the one who has done this beautiful thing for me.
18. Meditate and share your thoughts on the following John Newton quote:
“Our pleasure and our duty, though opposite before, since we have seen his beauty, are joined to part no more.”
The law becomes something I want to do to please and delight the one who has done this beautiful thing for me.
Our county and town are included in the large swath of a winter storm. They are calling for more than 12 inches of snow which started late this afternoon. We had church from 4-5 today since our pastor and deacons decided to do so instead of canceling tomorrow due to the inclement weather. It started blowing and snowing a little after church service was done.
My husband came home to take care of our vehicles and to prepare to do some blading in the morning. This after a busy day already! This is one of those times when the duty to love my husband is a pleasure. His acts of love are a beautiful thing. A small echo of how much more is the love of Christ for me! And my “duty” to love my Savior is a pleasure.
19. Read carefully about how Keller tells us to “visit our true home by prayer.” Explain.
I am not sure I understood what Keller meant. But I will take a stab at it. When I come to God, who is my true home, I am given a glimpse of how life with Him will be. So that if I face any alienation or sorrow or loss on earth, I can face them with the strength and wisdom I have received while visiting my true home through prayer.
I am struggling right now with a work-related decision. “visiting my true home by prayer” is spending time with the Father and feeling at peace that no matter what, all my worries about the future are naught. I am reminded of who my Father is and of my Elder Brother who continually prays for me.
I have traveled to many places where I have felt loved and provided for by friends and family. Nevertheless, I always felt the most loved when I was home with my husband. I could be somewhere else but could “visit” our home in my mind and be looking forward to being in it even though engaged in my present circumstance. I look forward to that better home in glory that I will not have to leave behind.
I love this ! I agree it’s a challenge to describe but I believe this is it.
Thank you, Chris and Sharon, for your encouragement. I saw this song and thought it was a good song about “visiting my true home by prayer.”
I’m pressing on the upward way,New heights I’m gaining every day;Still praying as I onward bound,“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”
I want to live above the world,Though Satan’s darts at me are hurled;For faith has caught the joyful sound,The song of saints on higher ground.
I want to scale the utmost heightAnd catch a gleam of glory bright;But still I’ll pray till rest I’ve found,“Lord, lead me on to higher ground.”
Author: Johnson Oatman
Music:
Saturday:
20. What’s your take-a-way and why?
That I can visit my true home by prayer. I am a visual/kinesthetic learner. The picture that I see as I imagine myself visiting my true home gives me the confidence to live life purposely and joyfully.