Two Mansions

An often-overlooked wonder is found in John 14, where Jesus said, “In My Father’s House are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you (Cross). And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself (Rapture), that where I am, there you may be also (Heaven)” (John 14:2,3).

The Greek word for “mansions” is “mone,” from where we get the English words “manor, manse, and mansion.” The idea is much more than just a permanent dwelling place, but a beautiful, spacious place of rest and richness. This is the Home which awaits us.

But Jesus used the word “mone,” twice in this chapter. First, for the Mansion which awaits us, secondly for the Home He wants in our hearts… “If a man loves Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our abode (lit: mone) with him. The one who does not love Me will not keep My sayings: and the word which you hear is not Mine, but the Father’s who sent Me” (John 14:23,24).

The heart that is so thankful for salvation prepares Christ a habitation! (Exodus 15:2).  A heart cleansed from sin, beautified in holiness, delighting in His Deity, and cherishing His words of Truth, this is the “Mansion” He desires – not a building - but a life wholly given to Him.  Christ will “settle down and be at home” in any heart that receives Him as Lord (Ephesians 3:17).

Does Christ have all your heart? He won’t take half, anymore than giving you only half of Heaven. It’s all or nothing. The Father will soon welcome Home to Heaven all who have welcomed His Son into their hearts while here on earth. Are you ready?

(Devotional by Lisa Cataford)