Sometimes it’s hard to understand how we should view this life in light of eternity. Of course, it will be much better on the other side with Christ, departed saints, angels, and the home God has prepared for us. But what does that mean for this life? Should we just want to get out of here as quickly as possible?
Augustine (AD 354-430) was one of the most important teachers in church history and I love his insight on this topic. He avoids the false dichotomy, the either-or way of thinking we often fall into. He writes, “While the higher things are indeed better than the lower things, the sum of all creation is better than the higher things alone” (Confessions). God’s creation encompasses the visible and invisible realms so we can rejoice in whatever realm we are in. Furthermore, we can stand back and view “the sum of all creation” with wonder.
After graduating from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, I served as a high school Bible teacher in Asia. I enjoy traveling, writing, and playing the drums. For a deep dive into church history and the character of God, see my book Surprised by Hell.
There are very few of us who can understand the actual meaning of the word “eternity”. We see Gods’ view of many people in the last verse of Jonah…thousands of people do not even know the difference between there right and left hands! Contemplating different realms or eternal time is not possible (or desirable) to them. Even those that venture there can do little to understand things and truths we can only imagine. But …inquiring minds that can are going to go there…..sooner or later….because that’s what they do. I believe it is as God intended when he created them. I like Augustine’s view. A simple analogy would be “We can’t truly appreciate mountains without also understanding valleys”. Best; Will M