Perfect Paradise

July 04, 2014 | By Chuck

"Perfect Paradise" As I write this I'm sitting on the balcony of our 11th floor condo overlooking the ocean. Not a bad place to be and certainly not a bad view and a great place for a little quiet time with God. In fact, as I begin each day on this balcony looking out over God's huge ocean I've often thought, this is paradise. If you could see this view I'm sure some of you would agree. What can beat breakfast while watching the dolphins? The sun shining, a nice breeze and boats going by makes for a very relaxing paradise for me. Although this place is beautiful and at least paradise for some, it's still the same old imperfect sin filled world. After assembling with our brothers and sisters Sunday morning (yes we worship on vacation, don't you) we found out just how imperfect this beautiful place is. My son slipped on a pair of my shoes and headed to meet some friends at the beach. At the end of the walkway before his feet touched the white sand of the beach he slid my shoes off and left them feeling sure they would be waiting when he returned. You guessed it. Somebody stole my Nike Slides! This place is beautiful and provides my family a nice getaway and a welcome change of pace but it's not a perfect place. While hanging on the cross Jesus said to the one thief with the attitude of repentance, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."(Lk.23:43) The paradise Jesus is referring to has nothing to do with a balcony overlooking the ocean. Jesus is talking about the real and true paradise of eternal life with Him. Eternal life with God is paradise with a perfect view of the Father on the throne and the Son at His right hand. That is the perfect paradise. Chuck Ball