There is an old saying that goes like this... 'too heavenly minded to be of earthly use...'

It speaks disparagingly about people of faith who seem to use hope of heaven to avoid engagement with the matters of this life. Retreating into a safe little haven of expectation and self centred comfort by taking the view that this world will pass away and therefore giving it time is a waste of energy and faith.

Of course there is some truth in this as Jesus taught frequently about strategic use of life to invest in the realities of eternity.  His story of the rich farmer who gave no thought to eternity and invested everything into this life only to lose it all, is a good example. Luke 12:16-21

However the reality for God's people is broader and perhaps surprising.

The hope of heaven with all it's joys is a future we are encouraged to anticipate with wholehearted wonder. Yes, yes!!!  But this anticipation does not mean disengagement with daily life, rather it is the opposite.

This morning I read Paul's letter to the pilgrims in the city of Colosse. I came across the statement that this group of believers were full of love for others that showed itself in real, practical engagement and help.

What prompted this way of living and engagement?

It sprang from their hope of heaven and all that is stored up for them!!

This set them free to lavishly pour their lives and resources into the needs of others. It helped them live strategically by giving themselves to what would last into eternity, love rather than selfish aquisition. The reality of being recipients of God's abundant overflowing grace spilled into showing that grace to others now. And the call of Jesus to be fellow workers in the present harvest field of great human need brought their commited response.

Hope of heaven yes, yes!!!

But in light of that...living in the present time, among present matters, with present people, all the while carrying heaven's joy and hope into every place our feet take us.

Heaven's hope to earth's need.