There was a certain great King who had the largest and most beautiful house in the world, and He was so kindhearted that His door was open to all who were willing to live with Him. Even His enemies were not shut out, if they would only confess that they were wrong, and ask Him to pardon them and open the door. He did not wait till they came and knocked, but sent His Son to invite them; and promised that if they would come and live with Him, they should have all they wished, and even more than they could ask.

And the King's Son afterwards wrote a Letter to them, to say that He was furnishing a pleasant Home for every one of them, and that He would soon come Himself and bring them. He did so. So many happy people came and sang from morning to night so sweet and loud that the land rang with their voices. The happy people wondered why anyone would pass by the Door and be willing to stay outside!

My dear children, Heaven is that Home. God the Father is that King. Jesus is that beloved Son. He came from His Father's House to invite you and me to it! He did more. He shed His own blood for us, and by the sacrifice of Himself secured eternal happiness for all who will receive Him as their Saviour. And every man and woman and child who is sorry for their sin, and asks God to forgive for Jesus' sake, to pardon, sanctify, and save, shall have a free welcome to that Heavenly palace, and shall wear such a white garment and such a bright crown, that the very angels shall wonder at their new companion, and sing with Him a song of praise!

I ask you then, dear children, will you go to this happy Home? Will you love this precious Saviour? Will you pray to this gracious Father? If you will, He sends each of you a kind message: "I have gone to heaven to make ready a place for you."

But perhaps you want to know a little more about this place, and about the love of Jesus preparing it. Let me try to tell you.

You have often seen how bright everything looks on a sunny summer's day; how the trees and flowers and fields sparkle in the sunshine. But Heaven is far brighter than all that. There is no need of the sun there, for "God doth lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof." Jesus wants to shine His light in your heart and guide you not only on earth but to your Heavenly Home! Won't you ask Him to be your Saviour today?