When the World says, "Homeless Veterans"

John 14:1-3

Jesus Comforts His Disciples

 ¹ “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. ² My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? ³ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

Home.

What a magical word.

It engenders feelings, smells, sounds, visions, and emotions that make you feel good and safe.

For so many veterans, home is just a memory.  The number of homeless vets is staggering.  There are shelters for both male and female homeless vets.  But a shelter is not the same thing as a home.

Home is also a state of mind -- loyalty, camaraderie, rest and peace.  Some vets are homeless in this sense, too.

When you think of heaven, you think of home.  That's what Jesus promised -- a home for you.  A home that smells like Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings.  A home that feels like the softest sheets and snuggliest bed.  A home that looks clean and pleasing and fills you with pride.  A home filled with kind words, singing, and laughter.

Don't rush going home.  Rest in the assurance that home is waiting for you and will be everything you remembered and everything you hope for.

When the World says, "One out of four homeless Americans is a  veteran,"

God says, "In my house are many mansions.  There's a place for you."

Sweet heavenly Father,

Thank you.

Amen.