Groaning for the Future

 2Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, 3because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked.4For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. (2 Corinthians 5:2-4)

Thoughts: Paul uses this word "groan" (stenazomen in Greek) expresses pressure from what is coming on.  It is a deep inner longing for what is to come (cf. Rom. 8:23).  Paul here is saying that deep within us is a longing for heaven.  It is almost like a naked person longing for clothes. Something is missing from this life.  We are incomplete in public without our clothes.  We are incomplete in life without God.  When we get to heaven, we will be made complete.  In the end, what is temporary and dying will be swallowed up by what is eternal and living.  Death and dying will come- the temporary nature of this life will be shown for what it is.  But for those who believe, the temporary and dying cross does not compare to the living power of the resurrection. 

Prayer: Lord, we long for you.  We groan deep down for the day we will be made complete in you.  Give us grace to live today in that hope.  

Woman giving a child her own coat to keep him warm in the cold.