Devotional Thought
Going Home…,
I still remember the home I grew up in, and as a child, there was nowhere better. My school, my church, my friends, the park, the store, all were a short walk from my abode and there, I had my best and my not so great, childhood memories.
While I was still young, my parents began talking of moving, and I for one, thought, “sell it to me when I grow up.” When they retired and moved, I must admit I was a little sad that I didn’t get a chance to be the next owner.
Occasionally, when in Portland, I will drive by – which take me back to my roots. It’s as I remember it, but smaller, and the neighborhood isn’t the same. Those I knew are gone, along with the once common pride of ownership, a subtle reminder that nothing on earth lasts forever. Gratefully, I cherish the memories, but I’m glad I didn’t buy the home.
God has told us about our roots in His Word. A place we’ve never been, but all are wired with a longing to be there, and the promise that one day it will be so, for all who trust in His promise Jesus Christ, His Son, and the Savior of the world. Unlike any place we can imagine, all will be new, and yet, when we arrive, we will know we are home. Home: full of love, safe, secure, joyful, perfect, pure, family, friends, forever with our God.
Today, He who loves you with an everlasting love is calling you back home to your roots. No matter your experience with your earthly home, don’t let it keep you from one day moving to your forever home purchased and prepared for you by God Himself.
Remember, God loves you, so do I, and there’s nothing you can do about it.
*(See John 3:16-17; John 14:1-3; Isaiah 65:17-25; Isaiah 66:22-23; Revelation 21:1-4)
Pastor Jim Bollin
Jim and his wife Sherri have four grown children and two grandchildren. You’ll find that they are family oriented, kid friendly, enjoy good food, relish their time with family and friends, and the simple blessings of life.
Growing up as a Christian, Pastor Jim joined the Adventist church in 1989, and entered the pastoral ministry in 1995. Since graduating from Andrews Seminary in 1999, he has pastored in both the Oregon and Idaho Conferences.
Jim’s role here at Castle Rock Church is all about serving our community as a whole, because he believes that Jesus’ teachings are meant to be lived out in our daily lives. He believes our faith grows best when we get involved in loving and serving others as Jesus did, with the unique gifts He has given us all.
Pastor Jim looks forward to helping you discover where and how God has called you to love others, in Jesus’ name.
Contact him at pastorjim@meadowglade.com