Imagining heaven can help us endure trials on earth
1 min • Digitized on November 22, 2023
From Imitation of Christ, in file "Imitation of Christ", page 262
By Thomas a Kempis
3. Oh! if thou hadst seen the everlasting crowns of the saints in heaven, and in how great glory they now triumph, who appeared contemptible heretofore to this world, and in a manner unworthy even of life, doubtless thou wouldst immediately cast thyself down to the very earth, and wouldst rather seek to be under the feet of all, than to have command so much as over one.
Neither wouldst thou covet the pleasant days of this life, but wouldst rather be glad to suffer tribulation for God’s sake, and esteem it thy greatest gain to be reputed as nothing amongst men.
4. Ah! if thou didst but relish these things, and didst suffer them to penetrate deeply thy heart, how wouldst thou dare so much as once to complain!
Are not all painful labours to be endured for everlasting life?
It is no small matter to lose or to gain the kingdom of God.
Lift up therefore thy face to heaven. Behold I, and all my saints with me, who in this world have had a great conflict, do now rejoice, are comforted now, are now secure, are now at rest, and for all eternity shall abide with me in the kingdom of my Father.