2 Corinthians 5:1 - Blessèd Demolition

We've been monitoring the removal of the HMS Middle School building, being torn down to make room for a new one. The other day, Carolyn stood with some of the teachers and staff, watching the demolition. As a white board was being torn down with a wall, the custodian said, "I put that board up myself!"

When I saw the rubble and the jagged edge of where a brick wall was partially removed, I wondered how many labor hours it took to lay those bricks in the first place. All that time, money, and energy to build a wall, one brick at a time--and how easily it is being destroyed by excavation equipment.

Paul wrote:
"For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." (2 Corinthians 5:1, New American Standard Bible)

In addition to being an apostle and missionary, Paul had a side job to help support himself and others who traveled with him. He was also a tent maker. He knew the time and skill it took to sew a sturdy, durable tent. But Paul also knew how easily a tent could be taken down. 

When someone dies, we see how easily deconstruction takes place. What's left after a someone dies? A child may leave behind favorite toys, books, or sports equipment. For an older adult, pill bottles that need to be disposed of. A walker. A wheelchair. Documents, papers, photos, clothing... a whole life that was built one day at a time.

But who holds on to an old building when a new one will replace it?
As Paul put it, what we see is temporary. What we don't see is permanent. (1 Cor. 4:18)
Jesus said, I go to prepare a place for you. (John 14:2) 
What awaits the believer is so much better.

Today's simple prayer:
Thank you, Lord for the hope of heaven. Amen.