June 27 — "A Glimpse of Heaven That Changes Everything"

Today's Reading: Acts 7:30-60

Stephen, one of the first deacons of the early church, stood before an angry mob, falsely accused, moments away from death. The chaos swirled around him, yet Heaven itself opened before his eyes. And what did he see? Jesus—not seated as He is often described—but standing, ready to receive him. That glimpse of glory didn’t erase his suffering, but oh, how it transformed the way he endured it! When we catch sight of Heaven’s reality, the trials of this life shrink in comparison to the joy set before us.

Have you ever had a moment where God felt overwhelmingly near—so close, so real, that His presence left you speechless? These sacred glimpses aren’t reserved for Biblical heroes like Stephen; they happen to ordinary believers just like us! Whether in worship, in prayer, in Scripture, or even in life’s toughest moments, God reveals His glory, shifting our vision beyond earthly struggles.

Stephen’s story is astonishing, but it’s not just history—it’s a truth for us today. Christ followers still experience moments where Heaven kisses earth—where God’s presence becomes undeniable, lifting our eyes above the weight of this world. These glimpses of glory remind us that Jesus is near, His kingdom is unshakable, and our hope is eternally secure.

We may not witness Heaven splitting open as Stephen did, but we encounter God’s glory in profound ways. Maybe you've been in worship and felt His presence so deeply it brought you to your knees. Or perhaps a verse leapt off the page, speaking straight to your heart as if God Himself whispered it to you. Maybe you've known a peace that defied logic in the middle of a storm, or looked at creation and felt an unexplainable longing for Home. These moments awaken something within us—joy, awe, peace, and a hunger for more of Jesus. They remind us that this world is not our final destination.

Don’t overlook the glimpses of glory God places before you! Chase after His presence—immerse yourself in His Word, worship without hesitation, pray with bold expectation, and open your heart to see Him moving in the ordinary. When trials come, seek His perspective, just as Stephen did. Fix your gaze on Jesus, and let the glimpses He gives you strengthen your faith until that glorious day when you finally see Him face to face.

May the Lord open your eyes to His glory, flood your heart with His presence, and fill you with the joy of knowing He is near. And may every glimpse of Heaven fuel your faith until the day you stand before Him in glorious eternity.