"Visas"

 

“Visas”

 

Churches I’ve attended and pastored have had many missionaries come to share their experiences of the work God called them to do. Some had ministered for decades and others were just starting out and seeking to build prayer and financial support. There were those in the latter category who had applied for visas to enter the countries where they would serve, which was often a slow process and called for patience in waiting on God’s timing.

As a grade schooler I remember a lady who was a nurse whose desire was to go to a nation where health care was almost non-existent. At the time of her visit to my church she was rejoicing because she had received word the previous week that her visa had been granted and she’d soon be on her way to the “field” where she faithfully cared for patients for many years. God recently brought her to mind so I did some research on visas.

A visa is defined as “an official document that allows the bearer to legally enter a foreign country”. Different nations have various policies such as requiring documentation if the traveler is coming from certain countries. Our government has some 80 categories for visas to enter the U.S.—some general areas include athletics, business, work, diplomats, religious work and students. The holders usually have a time limit to legally remain in country which necessitates their leaving for a period before applying for re-entrance.

In a sense our life is like a visa from God for our time on earth. At birth we’re citizens of the nation in which we live, a privilege that lasts until we die or move to another country. But as believers in Christ we’re citizens of His kingdom as well. Paul contrasted the two when he wrote, “…All (Christ’s enemies) think about is this life on earth. But we are citizens of heaven….” (Philippians 3:20-21, NLT). So our “visa” from God assures us that we’ll enter Heaven and live eternally in His presence (“…God has reserved a priceless inheritance for his children. It is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay.”—1 Peter 1:4, NLT). In 1919 an unknown songwriter expressed this hope in these words: “This world is not my home, I’m just a-passing through, My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue….” where “In (God’s) presence is fullness of joy….” (Psalm 16:11, NKJV).

Heavenly citizenship is offered to “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord….” (Romans 10:13). Have you procured your “heavenly visa” by trusting in Christ?

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan