While shopping recently, I overheard an exchange between two women who recognized one another and came together for a discussion that started on a low point but left me smiling.
It was some distance away but loud enough to hear and understand. Smiles and laughter turned into talk of the state of the world, the downward cultural spiral, and the rainy weather. One of them suddenly stopped and seemed to realize the negative tenor, then said, “I’m just so glad to be in that number.” Immediately, the other one echoed, “oh, me too. I’m so glad to be in that number,” referencing the old hymn “When the Saints Go Marching In” (the chorus actually says, “Oh Lord, I want to be in that number” in the old hymn.)
Even though I was a distance away, I wanted to join in because the atmosphere of the room, and my mood, had suddenly changed. Not wanting to interrupt, I didn’t say anything but to myself I thought, “Yes. Yes. I’m so glad to be in that number – one of the saints of God with a one-way pass to heaven, a gift bought through the sacrifice of Jesus.”
I’ve thought back on that moment and catch myself smiling and remembering the change in outlook with a mere reference to something spiritual. It’s amazing how the atmosphere is affected when we interject a spiritual thought, the name of Jesus or the living word of God.
Next time, I’m determined to go ahead and crash that party. The divine invitation has already been sent. We can have that assurance that, yes, we are indeed in that number of saints who will join Jesus in heaven. It is good news. We can all be in that number!
~Nan Robertson
Christ Fellowship