When planting bulbs in Autumn, it can be hard to believe that in a few months, these small brown objects will sprout green leaves and beautiful bright flowers. The shape, size and colour of the bulbs give little hint of the flowers which they will produce. With some knowledge and experience or the help of a picture on the packet, we have an idea of what to expect. But if we just look at an unfamiliar, unlabelled bulb it is hard to get any idea as to what it might turn into in Spring.

We have very little idea what life after death will be like. Many are uncertain as to whether there really is anything beyond what we can see. As a Christian, I am certain that there is life beyond the grave. Jesus promises that if we believe and trust in him then we will be with him in eternal life. We do not have to hope that we might be good enough to deserve eternal life with Jesus. None of us deserve it. Jesus died so that we can be forgiven and can be accepted into God’s presence because of what he has done for us.

I am much less certain about what that eternal life will be like. The Bible gives us a few glimpses but few concrete details. We are told that “Death will be no more; neither will there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain, any more.” (Revelation chapter 21 verse 4). We are given an image of somewhere perfect and beautiful with God at the centre. I find it difficult to imagine what it will be like.

Perhaps we should think of our life here on earth as being like a bulb. The glorious beauty that is to come in eternity is concealed within us even now. We cannot envisage what it will be like – but that does not mean that it is any less real or certain.

To prepare ourselves for eternity, we need to trust in Jesus’ death and resurrection now. We can get to know him in this life and gain at least a glimpse of his glory.