Gettin’ Thar

Gettin’ Thar

I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

Philippians 3:14

Hiram and Mary lived in the Great Smoky Mountains, but their homes were about four miles apart. They had, nevertheless, been sweethearts their entire lives. Hiram often walked the four long miles through the mountains to call on Mary at her log cabin, where she lived with her mother.

One fall day, Hiram came to see Mary, and because Mary’s mother was taking her typical afternoon nap, they decided to go for a walk so they would not wake her up. They finally returned to the front porch, where they sat quietly for a long time on a rickety, old wooden bench. There they watched the sun slowly set and the big, golden harvest moon rise. Soon the old devil moon worked its magic, and Hiram slid a little closer to Mary.

He patted her hand and said, “Mary, y’know I got a clearin’ over thar and a team an’ a wagon an’ some hawgs an’ cows, and I allow as how I’m gonna build me a house this fall an’ . . .”

About that time, Mary’s mother, who had just awakened from her nap, interrupted Hiram and asked, “Mary, is that young man thar yet?”

Mary responded with a giggle, “No, Maw, but he’s agettin’ thar!”

Sometimes, when I think of heaven, I just wonder if I will ever get there. It seems so ethereal and far away at times. And yet, I know I am on my way, and some sweet day I will pass through that golden gate and be gathered into the arms of the Lover of my soul for all eternity. I’m agettin’ thar!

Dear Lord, sometimes life seems long and hard, but I know that someday I will be at home and at peace with you. Thank you for adopting me into your family and for loving me so. Amen.