The way you pack for a trip says something about you.

Some people are super-organized, and that’s reflected in their packing behaviour.

They create lists of things to be done before the trip. Colour-coding of priority tasks is often involved. Any item they could possibly need while abroad is obtained, efficiently packed, and checked off the list.

Some nations have gone to war with less preparation than this.

Other people are more random. Sure, they’ll throw some clothes in a suitcase, but there’s no grand plan they’re following. Often, the things they pack for a trip will be a bit puzzling.

A survey of British travellers revealed the odd things that some people bring along with them wherever they go. The top 10 strangest items that people simply couldn’t do without when on a trip included:

• Framed pictures of dead cats;

• A loved one’s ashes;

• A stuffed pet hamster;

• An emotional support boa constrictor. (Really?)

But seriously, what’s the most important thing to bring with us on a trip?

People!

The ones we love most: our best buddies or our dearest family members.

Movies like “Home Alone” have taught us the perils of leaving behind someone important when we travel.

But what about life’s most important journey?

The one to our eternal home?

The same holds true. The most important thing to bring with us is people.

Scripture tells us that God has prepared a place for believers in Heaven with Him. We can surmise that it’s a beautiful, glorious place, with no more crying or pain or death.

Wouldn’t you want the people you love the most to join you there?

Jesus said: “There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” (John 14:2-3)

How can you make sure that your loved ones will be making the journey to Heaven as well?

By telling them about God’s plan for salvation and leading them into a saving knowledge of Jesus.

It’s as simple as that. When people believe in Christ’s atoning sacrifice on the Cross, their sins are forgiven and they’ve acquired a one-way ticket to Heaven.

The tickets are free, and you can give away as many as you like.

So travel light on your trip to Heaven, but bring a big crowd with you!

“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal.
Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy,
and thieves do not break in and steal.
Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.”

matthew 6:19-21

© 2023 Lori J. Cartmell. All rights reserved.