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For Jim's Birthday, July 16, 2019


By Dcrjsr (talk · contribs) - Own work, CC BY 3.0
This morning Jim opened his eyes.  He felt a new lightness inside.  

“What’s different?” thought Jim.

He moved his hands.  He could flex and unflex them easily now.  

He looked down at his legs.  They looked strong, the way they used to.

“Could I really get up?!” Jim thought excitedly.

He looked around him for the first time.

“Where am I?” Jim wondered aloud.

He was in a beautifully carved wooden bed, in a field of brilliant lupines.  He saw an emerald field all around him that sloped down to meet rushing water.  Beyond the water he saw a great abyss, from which many other mountains rose.

“Could I be in Heaven?” Jim wondered.

“Yes, you are, my son,” the LORD replied.

“I made it to heaven?” Jim asked. “Really?”

“Yes of course,” replied the LORD. “You always had a kind heart.  You always shared that kindness with others, including the least of my children.

You loved your wife and son with unconditional love.

It is always easier for men on earth to judge others instead of showing them love.  But you did the harder thing.

Therefore, come take your place in my Heaven.”

A brilliant door of blazing gold appeared in the sky.  Jim sat up and placed his feet on the grass.  He found that he could rise and stand easily.  Light on his feet, Jim began to walk towards the door.  The door opened.  On the other side of the door, Jim saw many family members and friends waving and smiling to him. “We’re so glad you’re here!” they called.

“LORD God, will Becky and Carl be alright?” Jim asked.

“Yes, they will.  Because they know me.  And because they are following your example to show kindness to others. Their walk with Me will only become stronger in the years to come.”

“Thank you, LORD.  I needed to know that before I go up here,” Jim said. “I’ll be watching them, and be with them every day too.  But I needed to know that you are holding them in the palm of Your hand.”

“I am, Jim. Now go take your place.”

Jim smiled and walked through the shining door.

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