Final Homecoming

Homecoming...what does it mean to you? I am sure for many the word homecoming takes on many different meanings. For me, when I think of the word homecoming, I think of that glorious day when I will finally be reunited with all my loved ones. A final homecoming. This week, my husband and son have been out of town. They were in Arkansas visiting family. They made the drive out late Wednesday night and returned home shortly after 6am today. Granted, my son has never been away from me for more than a weekend at any given time. I was so ready to see him. A Mother's love is like no other. Last night I lay in bed anticipating what the morning might bring. I prayed that God would watch over my family as they traveled home. I prayed for safety and that he would place a hedge of protection around them. I wanted my babies home and in my arms. I was ready for a homecoming. This morning, as I heard the car pull into the drive, happiness and joy exhumed me. My family was now home and we were now one again. I no longer had to worry about their safety. I sat in bed and waited anxiously for the door knob to turn. At first I heard the sound of my husband entering the house. Then, as I watched the door to my room open, my heart was filled with complete happiness. My son said Mommy, ran into my arms and clung to me. I held him tightly and told him how much I had missed him. My sweet child was now home. My husband then came to bed and I wrapped my arms around him. Safe...that is what I felt. Safe and loved. God had brought my family back to me. I lay in bed and thanked him for their safe return. This morning, on my way into work, I couldn't help but to think what our final homecoming must be like? To be reunited with all those that have gone on before us. We will finally see our loved ones face to face. My family was gone for only a short week and I missed them like crazy. I guess the saying really is true. You don't realize what you have until it's gone. This week I have anxiously awaited for their return. I can only imagine what Heaven must be like. I would imagine it is a happiness, a peace, and joy like we have never felt before. No more sadness or loneliness. The waiting game is now over. You have made it to your final destination...your final homecoming.