The first 9 years Cheryl and I were married, we moved 9 times. Part of that time was spent in college and seminary and vicarage/internship, and then my first call to serve in Oklahoma. The ninth move brought us Sherman to the house in which we lived for 28+ years as I served as pastor of Grace Lutheran in Denison, Texas. It was a good home, the first one we had ever owned. There was an addition, then remodeling and many changes over the years.  We repaired storm damage and did all kinds of maintenance. I planted trees, built a patio, crawled through the attic running wires and cables, built shelves and cabinets and laid tile. There was an assortment of colors and coats of paint inside and out. A lot of our blood, sweat and tears were in that house.

Our family was raised here. It was our home. There were countless celebrations and gatherings held there during that time. We have lots of memories, both good and bad, from our time there. And we are truly grateful for all the blessings God has gave us in that place. But it all came to an end in April 2016.

We entered the next phase of this adventure of life here on earth together. Cheryl and I were ready to see what God had in store for us in the days ahead. We moved (for the tenth time) to temporary quarters on our property in Bells, Texas. We started building the home into which we would retire.

As we were going through that time, I was reminded of a hymn that I learned as a child and that still holds a special place in my heart. Here are two of the stanzas that I especially love:

I’m but a stranger here, Heaven is my home;
Earth is a desert drear, Heaven is my home.
Danger and sorrow stand Round me on ev’ry hand;
Heaven is my fatherland, Heaven is my home.

There at my Savior’s side, Heaven is my home;
I shall be glorified, Heaven is my home.
There are the good and blest, Those I love most and best;
And there I, too, shall rest, Heaven is my home.

We have since built the log home of our dreams. Our kids and grandkids come and visit as often as possible. In retirement we have started traveling around the country like we hoped we would be able to do. We have also been able to make some international trips. We enjoy our journeys, but we still like coming home.

We don’t know what the future holds, but we know the one in control. What I am certain of is that heaven is my home. My Lord Jesus, who paid for the sins of the world (including mine) with His life and His death, said:

“In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am
going there to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2). 

My spot is ready and waiting. I thank God for that assurance. Of course, there is a bit of anxiety that goes with that move, but in the end I try to say with St. Paul:

“I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far” (Philippians 1:23).

Until that day, I’ll keep enjoying the temporary quarters that I have here on earth.