Computer End program!
Followers of the "Star Trek" Sci-fi series will know that 29th Century Starfleet officers like to spend their off duty time in the holo-suite.
This computer generated, holographic light environment will allow the players to participate in any fantasy that takes their fancy, but when duty calls and they are suddenly recalled to the bridge they issue the command "Computer, end programme !" The scene disappears and the holo-suite reverts to being a bare room..... It was all make-believe.
"What's heaven like ?"
"Well don't ask me, I have not been !"
You want to ask someone who's been there."
Well the disciples did just that.
Jesus described heaven in very human terms "rooms", "mansions", "not being married" etc.
"In my Father's house there are many mansions (rooms): if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you." ( John Chapter 14 verse 2 )
"At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven." ( Matthew Chapter 22 verse 30 )
He saw that as the easiest way for us to understand. But however he described it, it is real and everlasting and not going to disappear on the command "Computer end programme !"
In "Deep Space Nine" Quark, the Ferengi bar owner, runs the holo-suites and finds they bring in a comfortable income in Latinum bars.
What does heaven cost ?
Everything and Nothing
Everything...... God wants you, every part of you.
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." ( Deuteronomy Chapter 6 verse 5 & Matthew Chapter 22 verse 37 )
Nothing.......... Free gift of God "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." ( Romans Chapter 6 verse 23 )
It is available now, without queuing or waiting.
"Listen! This is the hour to receive God's favour; today is the day to be saved !" ( 2 Corinthians Chapter 6 verse 2 Good News Bible)
Michael Fowler 1999
