Stahlke Adoption

Reassurance

Last night, I dreamed vividly of a wealthy mansion, owned by an acquaintance who is a doctor.

The proud father stood on the balcony with his daughter, who was dressed in her white finery for the ceremony. After smiling at their joy, I strolled through the many floors of the mansion, finally finding the room intended for me. A multitude of guests filled the building, all relaxing and dressing up as they waited for the festivities to begin. Their individual rooms fit them well, and we all found it so gracious that our host not only invited us to the wedding, but also provided each of us a beautiful room for our stay.

For years, this historic house had interested me, and finally I could slowly walk through and see it all. Each room, uniquely decorated, shone with care and good taste. Some tiny rooms were backlit with candles, while other grand spaces soared with high ceilings accented with heavy wooden beams. I could describe dozens of rooms to you, in color and with great detail, but will instead continue my story.

After touring the home, I stepped outside onto the grounds. Looking up at the house, I could now imagine how the interior spaces fit into the familiar façade. As it was evening, the windows into the grand dining room provided a clear view of the preparations for the reception. The wait staff sat enjoying their meal in the pause before they would serve the wedding guests. The lavish food included the largest roasted turkeys I've ever seen, so heavy that conveyor belts were needed to move them into place for serving. The banquet hall shone with blazing light, and the fine wood furniture filled the room with luxury.

I departed into the city to return home for a dress to wear to the wedding. It was impossible to find my way, so I returned to the mansion. But the clothes I was wearing did not really matter, for my acceptance into this lovely home was complete and assured. By now, many people I knew from all stages of my life filled the rooms. We all waited for the wedding to begin.

Awaking from this vivid dream, I wondered what it could mean. Then I took comfort, as I prayed for my father-in-law, who is dying of cancer. He is going to a very wonderful place.

John 14:1-3
"Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.

Matthew 22:4
"Everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast."

posted by Stahlkes @ 3:34 PM