Just 12 hours before going to the cross, Jesus prayed, "Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have give Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world" (John 17:24 NKJV). How bad does Jesus want you to be with Him forever in Heaven? It was one of the last things He ever prayed for! He wanted His disciples to be with Him where He was going. He wants His disciples today to be with Him where He now sits at the right hand of the Father.
 
In my most recent newsletter (June 2009) I wrote as follows. "A little boy 'invaded' his father's office one night. The father said, somewhat curtly, 'What do you want?' With a tear in his eye the lad replied, 'Just to be with you.' Jesus wants us to be with Him. He desires fellowship with us! We should want to be with Jesus - and with all of His children, whatever their age, situation or present condition." That is true of this life and it is certainly true of the life to come - eternal life in Heaven! Does it impress you or affect you that Jesus Christ Himself wants you to be with Him in Heaven? It does me. Recently some school children were scheduled to meet with the President in the White House. But due to traffic problems they got there too late for the much anticipated audience. The doors were shut. Children were left in tears. Parents and teachers were understandably upset. I am so glad that the gates to the New Jerusalem will never be shut, night or day, and "all who would might enter, and no one was denied" (Frederick Weatherly). And I am glad that my Lord prayed, "Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am."

Hymn/Prayer: "Jesus calls us; by Thy mercies,Savior may we hear Thy call, Give our hearts to Thy obedience, Serve and love Thee best of all" (Mrs. Cecil F. Alexander).