Types and Shadows of the Heavenly Realm
“Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount,” Hebrews 8:5.
Carol and I just heard a wonderful flutist play many different melodies that were inspired by Native American songs as well as some sacred pieces that were song by Johnny Cash and others.
It was a very meditative and worshipful time for me especially. My thoughts became centered upon people that I have known during my life as well as family members who have died.
It truly made me think about the transitory quality of life and how our lives are but a vapor.
I found myself also looking at a wooden hanging sculpture piece that was towards the front of the room where the musical event was occurring. It was of an angel and yet the face was that of Christ.
And then I found myself thinking about all of the things that man has created in this life, all through the ages of mankind. And yet no matter how beautiful; no matter how deep or poignant the work is, they are but a type or a shadow of that which is eternal.
Everything that man has ever done or created, if it is done in the inspiration of The Holy Spirit, is but an echo of that which resides forever. And of course because of our finite minds, what we create is limited to the materials and resources that are upon this earth.
We can read through the pages that speak of the heavenly realm and how sorrow and mourning will be done away with.
We can read of the crystal azure blue river that flows to the throne of God and the trees that bring healing to the nations.
We can read all of words that illustrate how the New Jerusalem will be, and yet words are really inadequate to describe it all.
This life that we now live is composed of those things that are around us — the rocks and trees, the earth and water and everything around us that we see and touch frames us in this world.
And that is not to omit or not include the spiritual realm that is ever around us, but we are held and we live in this life and upon this piece of dirt called earth.
And so we sing songs about the life here after and consider even songs sung by Johnny Cash and others, “I’m going there to see my father.”
And yet those who have gone and have left us now are but memories; their lives are now swallowed-up, and yet they are not forgotten.
Perhaps it then becomes very important for us to consider what was written down in Hebrews 12:1,
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us…….
Selah,
~ Stephen Hanson
Stephen Hanson of In His Truth Ministries came to the LORD is a special way in 1975 and has prophesied regularly since. In these end-time birthing pangs we are reminded that judgment must first begin with the household of God. Will we be prepared and ready?
Absolutely.
Amen, thank you, God bless.
Awesome song. Thank you for sharing. God Bless.