Living in the Anteroom of Heaven

Tuesday Thought 4.30.24

In Thornton Wilder’s play, Our Town, the final act is set in a liminal space between life and death. Main character, Emily, has died in childbirth. She has joined several other characters, including her mother-in-law, Mrs. Gibbs, to await what comes next.

Mrs. Gibbs tells Emily they’re in this space to forget their lives and get ready for what’s ahead.

In a conversation recently, I was reminded of that scene. Someone said they were aware of feeling detached from previous professional roles and hobbies, awaiting the next life. Not depressed, doing okay, but aware of waiting for what’s ahead.

I said, “It’s like you’re in the anteroom of heaven.” 

As we grow up we develop our gifts and talents. We establish relationships. We find meaning and esteem and a sense of value.

But as we grow older, we’re meant to dig deeper. Beyond what has given this life meaning. 

Photo by David Marcu on Unsplash

We are meant to release our lives here and attach ourselves more fully to what’s coming. To find meaning and joy in the eternal hope that God has promised to those who follow Him. 

Jesus is the resurrection and the life. We who believe will live, even though we die. (John 11:25)

Truly, the best is yet to be.

The Lord bless you and keep you all your days.