Many years ago I had written this and posted it on Ritan. Why I saved it, I do not know but it seems only fitting to repost it now. Hopefully it will encourage someone who needs it. Back when I wrote it, before becoming a moderator, I posted it somewhat tongue in cheek as we were not allowed to post "visions" on the site, hence the "Sorry, Mods" comment. The idea came to me as clear as if I were actually seeing it but I do not believe it was a true vision. Others had posted later that they thought it was because of some of the things I had written but by no means am I claiming this to be any vision from God. Take it for what it was meant to be: Encouragement. As posted back, well, whenever..... ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- *Well, I just woke up from a nap. While I was asleep I had a very clear vision (sorry mods). In that vision I was in Heaven exploring everything (very much my nature as I'm very inquisitive). As I was exploring I found God's database. So I tippy-toed in and looked at the database. In it was a blueprint (3D in nature and animated) of a wonderful hall with large stately pillars and glass windows that sparkled like diamonds, only better! This great hall sat upon a beautiful hill overlooking a valley full of trees, flowers, birds, and every animal imaginable. The huge doors to the hall were so ornate that I was fixated on them for a minute. A large heart made of what looked like a ruby with many, many facets was on the center of each door. Above the main doors was a red rose. Around the great roof were channels, like gutters, and flowing through them was the most pure water I'd ever seen. Inside the hall were chairs that looked like thrones in their appointments, though they were not thrones per se. Engraved around the top of each chair was the name of a Ritanian. The language was unlike anything I'd ever seen but somehow I could utter it. When I did, it produced not only the finest taste in my mouth but also the finest aroma I'd ever smelled. Then I recognized all the names of my brothers and sister. The long main table that was surrounded by these chairs has what looked like holographic images. There were literally millions of them. I didn't understand what they meant. As I was trying to figure it out, the Lord entered into the great hall. As I turned to look a feeling of love and mercy so overwhelmed me that I dropped to the floor and began worshiping with the most beautiful song I'd ever heard, and it was coming from within me. And to top it off, I actually had an amazing singing voice (something I do not have here on earth). Finally, His hand touched me and He said "Do not be afraid. Rise, my child". I did as I was told. As I stood I looked up into His eyes and just came completely undone. I cried the most glorious tears and then He embraced me................eternity stood still. Then, as I mustered up my courage I said "I'm in trouble, aren't I?" He said "Yes, son. You are. You should not have peeked into the database. That is not for you to know" "But Lord" I said, "how are my brothers and sisters going to find each other?" "Don't worry, my son. I have it all planned out, every detail, and you and your Ritanian siblings will be very pleased. Just trust Me". "Yes, Lord" I said. "But if I may, what are all of those things that look like holograms?" "Those are the records of all the people you and your siblings have helped along the journey of life by what you've done though RITAN. This great hall is named Encouragement Hall and is dedicated to all Ritanians forever and ever." Then I wept and my Lord wept with me. As we wept I faded back to this realm where we are right now. *This is not really a vision from the Lord but just my idea of what it might be like when we get to our Home. Praise Jesus for the opportunity we have to touch others lives for Him and help and encourage them and each other along the way. As Steven Curtis Chapman says in his song: I know that day is coming I know is going to be here soon I wont turn back even if the world says I'm going the wrong way It's just a long way home Yohanan— that is awesome, brought tears to my eyes! I’ve often wondered that beside seeing Jesus, how will I ever be able to find others in my family, RITAN, friends gone on before, those prayed for, witnessed too, etc .... Also have wondered, although we encourage each other here, does our work benefit those that find their way to this sight! Appreciate the sharing, yes, I remember that vision rule — glad it’s curved a bit! :prayer-hands: :good: Beautiful thought! Would hope our site has been a blessing! But is this what coffee does to you! Seriously, many have spoken of a RITAN hall! That's also where we can roast the moderators! My bad, but so much fun! TR Heh, I was one for a short while, not a good one! Then I found my brain! TR So encouraging, Yohanan ~ ` I believe it ~~` what beautiful insight ' ~ , . . ~ ~ I am 'picturing' Jesus smiling over your inquisitiveness ~ . . 'envisioning' RITAN's King's kids at the Heavenly table Jesus designed. ~~so like our Lord to share in the delight of His children ~~ Agreed, God is good that way! TR This is so cool - far out cool! :good: Encouragement Hall sounds like a lovely place to fellowship at. I can actually picture that Hall up there and the fine details you described are amazing! :yes: Ok confess ... how many mocha drinks did you consume before that awesome vision? B-) Truly inspiring story Johanan, please forgive my distractions! Would be so cool if this were so! Certainly I could speak of the many times I have been blessed here! May we continue to bless many, as well as each other! Bless your heart brother! TR Something I needed to hear today -- thank you Yohanan! Soon -- so very very soon! Nothing to forgive, my brother!
