“What is Heaven Really Like, Grandma?” Heavenly Resources for the Sandwich Generation – 1

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Heaven! That's something people of all ages think about, isn't it? As we worked on Bible memory verses through Lent and Easter, my grandkids kept asking me all sorts of questions about Heaven. When a loved one passed away a few years ago, his mother wanted to know more about heaven, as well. The Bible does talk a lot about heaven and there are several excellent books on the subject including some by a favorite author of mine, Randy Alcorn. I thought a couple of his books, such as Heaven for Kids, would make for some interesting naptime reading along with providing some good and encouraging Bible memory verses to help my grandkids and me explore this subject. And what a fun series for Word-Filled Wednesday. So do join us as we explore this subject more over the next few weeks.

In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. John 14:2-3 (NIV)

I first learned this verse in the King James Version, where it reads:

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 unto myself; that where I am , there ye may be also. John 14:2-3 (KJV)

and when I shared it with my grandkids a couple of weeks ago, they LOVED the word mansions. Then they asked how big our mansions would be which sent me running to my Strong's concordance and other versions of the Bible. Turns out, there are several different ways this word is translated – including:

• Amplified = Dwelling places
• King James Version = Mansions
• Message = Plenty of room for you
• NASB = Many dwelling places
• NIV = Many rooms
• The Latin Vulgate (since all my grandkids are learning some Latin this year, I had to include this one on the list) = mei mansiones
• Weymouth New Testament = many resting-places (this busy Sandwich Generation granny nanny LOVES this rendering)
• Young's Literal = Mansions

In reading these and doing a bit of research, the general consensus seems to be that the better translation is probably many rooms. Suffice it to say, there will be ample room for all of God's children in heaven and that is an awesome thing to share with our kids and grandkids. And if it turns out they are, indeed, mansions, even better! (And if any of you have done more extensive research on this passage and want to share interesting tidbits, we'd love to hear them.) As for which we will memorize? I'll probably go with NIV but then again… How about you? 🙂

In the meantime, for more encouraging Bible verses, along with great ideas for leaving a sweet spiritual legacy in the hearts and minds of our kids and grandkids, enjoy Word-filled Wednesday at Internet Cafe Devotions, Teaching What Is Good, and Women Living Well. And…