I was reading the small commentary at the bottom of my Bible when it was talking about blessings while here on earth. It said that so many things we do on earth lead to destruction. Of how, as Christians we should be focused on eternal things, eternal blessings. But there was a side note that really grabbed my heart. The note said, even though we strive towards our heavenly home, we can also enjoy some of the benefits God wants to give us now, on earth due to our obedience.

Isaiah 2:5 Come, O house of Jacob, let us walk in the light of the LORD.

Hmm, I had to think about this. Do you mean, when I am obedient, I get to enjoy some of what it would be like in heaven? I mean, I always knew when I am obedient life is so much better (not necessarily happier but better due to doing what God has asked of me) but I never equated the goodness with what heaven would be like. It's literally a taste of a fraction of our eternal life. So I am thinking this should motivate us to be obedient, right? Well, it does for me. I know the Lord wants so much more for me and you. I know that this can only happen as we draw closer to Him and do what He ask of us.

Lord, I want to experience all of you, help me to be obedient in ALL things.

I have some new neighbors across my street. I know from some other neighbors that they do not know the Lord. Their home is very stressful from kids to an elderly parent living with them to a new puppy. This year they had a break in and several valuable items were stolen. Earlier this summer one of them left the out of gear and it rolled out of the drive way, hitting trash cans before stopping in the street. I've tried to get to know them, waving as I go by, dropping by and such but I have never made contact. Then the other day, their little puppy wandered in my yard. He was so playful. He quickly came up to me and allowed me to pet him. I was able to get some rope around his collar and take him back home. I knocked on the door and the lady of the home answered. I asked if she has lost this little guy and she said yes, that's Bunny, our new puppy. I was like, "Bunny???". Well that started a conversation. We weren't able to get too far but now when I wave, they wave back. I know we are going to become friends, one step at a time. Thank you Lord for YOUR ways to connect us even when OUR ways don't work. Thank you Lord when we respond and act in obedience. Thank you Lord that you are preparing those around us to receive your word, your salvation.

Job 33:3
My words come from an upright heart; my lips sincerely speak what I know.