“I’m sorry, ma’am, your name isn’t on the contact list, so I can’t answer your questions.” That’s what the receptionist at the nursing home said when I called to ask about my auntie.
Unfortunately, I failed to make the acceptance list.
I protested. “But she was my favorite babysitter. She changed my diapers. She was my mom’s best friend. She told stories at my mom’s funeral and made us all laugh and cry.”
“Sorry, ma’am. You’re not on the list. You’ll have to call a family member.”
“But . . .”
The receptionist hung up. I sighed. Not on Auntie’s list. Well, I did live two thousand miles away from her and couldn’t do anything in case of an emergency. But not being included still stung.
Jesus gives seventy-two of His disciples the bigger picture. They had just returned from successful missionary trips to places where Jesus Himself would soon preach. They reported that even demons had obeyed them in Jesus’ name. But Jesus lifts their eyes to a greater reality—one that transcended earthly triumphs and achievements. “Rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
Maybe our names have appeared on exclusive lists, enabling us access to a coveted place. Perhaps we were admitted to backstage, a limited autograph signing, or the “plus one” at a red carpet event. Maybe we were taking a bow, signing our names, or gliding down the red carpet amid the cameras’ flashing lights.
But more likely, we’ve never achieved public acclaim or been on any list which opened the door for a select few. The greatest admittance is the one granted by the Son of God who has the authority to let us enter heaven. No matter our status in this world, we can have an eternal home by faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Come to Jesus by faith and ask Him to forgive your sins. He is waiting to add your name to the heavenly list.
(photo courtesy of pixabay.com.)
(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)
Grace Assante has enjoyed various writing projects over the years, and after attending the 2022 Asheville Christian Writers Conference, she was inspired to learn the craft of writing well and not to give up on her dreams of publication. She and her husband live in Brooklyn, New York, and are blessed with three grown children, two wonderful daughters-in-law, and three adorable grandkids. She enjoys traveling, reading, taking long walks with her husband, and meeting friends for coffee.