“But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.”
— Hebrews 11:16 KJV
Reflection on Today's Verse
Can we just pause and marvel at this? A better country? A heavenly one? Sounds like the ultimate travel brochure! No inflation, no potholes, no Wi-Fi outages—just the perfect city designed by God Himself. I mean, think about it: the Creator of sunsets, galaxies, and puppy eyes is personally crafting this place. How can it not be mind-blowingly amazing?
But here’s the kicker—this isn’t about where we’ll live someday; it’s about who we are now. The heroes of faith in Hebrews 11—Abraham, Sarah, Noah, Rahab—weren’t scrolling Zillow for heavenly mansions. They were living life on Earth as if heaven was already their true home. They trusted God’s promise so deeply it shaped every decision, every step, every awkward faith-fueled moment.
And look at God’s response: “He is not ashamed to be called their God.” Whoa. Not ashamed? You know that feeling when your mom brags about you to her friends? Multiply that by a million. That’s God, proud to be your God when you live like heaven is real.
But let’s be real—most days, we’re not exactly walking around with “heavenly citizen” vibes. We’re more like, “Can I microwave this leftover faith, or do I need to cook up something fresh?” Yet, even when we stumble, this verse reminds us of grace. God’s not giving up. The city’s still being prepared, and the invitation’s still open.
So, what does desiring a heavenly country look like? It’s more than just daydreaming about harp lessons and cloud seating. It’s living with a holy stubbornness, refusing to settle for less than God’s best—here and now. It’s kindness that feels out of place, forgiveness that shocks people, generosity that makes no sense.
Let’s walk this earthly road like we’ve already seen the city skyline of heaven in the distance. Because, spoiler alert: we’re heading home, and it’s going to be better than we can imagine. And yeah, maybe pack your sense of humor for the journey—something tells me God loves a good laugh.
After all, He did make the platypus.
Personal Prayer
Heavenly Father, You’ve prepared a city for us—a heavenly home that surpasses all we could dream. Yet, here I am, so often caught up in earthly things, chasing after comforts and distractions that pale in comparison to Your promises. Forgive me, Father, for the times I settle for less, for the times my faith wavers, and my focus drifts.
Teach me to long for that “better country” with all my heart. Help me live today with heaven in view—not as a distant dream, but as the reality shaping my choices, my words, and my actions. Let my life reflect the trust and boldness of those who walked before me, who dared to believe that You are faithful and true.
Lord, it humbles me to think that You’re not ashamed to be called my God. What a gift of grace! Let that truth sink deep into my soul. May it give me courage when I’m weak, peace when I’m anxious, and purpose when I feel lost.
Thank You for preparing a place for me, but more than that, thank You for being with me now. Keep my heart tuned to You, and let my steps honor the promise of the city You’ve prepared.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.