The Love Palace
“In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”
– John 14:2-3 NKJV
Before heading to my friends’ wedding in Kerala, India, I took time to visit some tourist sites, including the gorgeous Taj Mahal, aka the Love Palace. This elegant mausoleum, with its glistening white marble stone structure and luxurious precious-stone inlays, instantly warmed my heart when I learned of its origins. Shah Jahan, a seventeenth century Mughal emperor, had this mausoleum built in honor of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during the birth of their fourteenth child (whew, that’s a lot of children).
Listening to the tour guide’s explanation of the lengthy construction process was fascinating. It took 20 years to construct this beauty, with more than 20,000 workers from across the globe. While this was no doubt a feat to complete, this symbol of love has stood the test of time and remains a jewel of India. I’m not going to lie, I wish I had a prince charming who would build me a love palace – though preferably while I’m still alive. The fact is, however, we have a loving Father who is doing just that.
Jesus tells us our Father and Him have been taking the time to prepare a place specifically designed for you and me in heaven. While we have not seen this grand structure yet, we can be confident God is overseeing every little detail and is looking forward to unveiling it to us soon.
