Diamonds in the Darkness

Chapter 1

A Glimpse of Heaven


Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things
For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
—Colossians 3:2–4



Dearly Beloved,
Not long ago, I attended a Christian concert with my daughter and her best friend. The weather was dreary and cold, but I was excited about the special evening that lay in front of us. It didn’t matter that the concert was two hours away. I knew that we would be blessed!
We arrived early and looked around. People from all walks of life surrounded us. There were people in formal dress and individuals who dressed according to the cold weather, like me.
I went to my seat and observed the large audience. It looked like about one thousand people were there. The hall was filled with reserved persons; I thought it was strange that these people were here. They were quiet, talking softly to their neighbors. This was unlike Christian concerts I had attended where excitement filled the audience.
I waited with expectancy as we watched the renowned Christian artist, the choir of several hundred people, and a vast orchestra slowly take their places. The music was incredible, and I was captivated by the rich sounds of the orchestra. The choir was extraordinary; it sounded like the voices of thousands of angels.
Suddenly I was caught up in the glorious presence of God. Complete joy permeated the entire atmosphere. A thousand people, before quiet and reserved, were standing and singing at full volume, extending their hands upward toward Jesus.
Gone were the concerns and worries that had plagued me for months. I never wanted to go home again!
Dearly beloved, one day we will be in heaven, worshipping the Lord Jesus Christ. John said in his book of Revelation that His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance (Revelation 1:16). And we will be with Him forever.
My friend, whenever you are alone and afraid, remember these words of Jesus: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
God loves you. He is for you. (See Romans 8:31.) If you don’t know Jesus, please take a moment and ask Him into your heart. Tell Him that you are sorry for your sins and that you want to live with Him forever. Be encouraged today, and know that our King has your every care in His hands. (See 1 Peter 5:7.)
God loves you!