Packing for the Trip

Beside an empty suitcase
And undated ticket
I begin the “to do” list,
Packing for the trip.

I ponder, reflect,
Prepare for Heaven,
My journey home

I’ll stay there forever.
What do I need?
How much time do I have?

I pack God’s promises
To shepherd and comfort me.
I pack trust
In His peace
To calm any fear.

Remembering, I gently stuff my
Dog-eared Bible in one corner,
Wishing I had studied it more,
Was better prepared,
Used too many Cliff notes along the way.

I pack beloved pictures
Of the smiling faces
Sure to greet me
As I cross the river.

I tenderly tuck in
Photos of loved ones,
Covered with my pride and passion.
Tiny tears of separation
Stain this stack of pictures.

I pack faith in God’s promise that our children and theirs
Will follow God on the same path, enlightened by joy.
I pack the hope that many “much prayed for” souls
Will join our joyous throng.

I take light for the darkness,
Joy for the morning,
Confession for disobedience.
I am marching to hymns of praise as I walk home to meet my God.