We recently returned from a month-long journey that began in Northern Minnesota and carried us through landscapes of breathtaking beauty and into the hearts of people we love. But before the healing began, my mind was heavy with grief—still reeling from the image of Charlie Kirk being killed in front of thousands. Whether literal or symbolic, the loss felt enormous. It was a reminder that our faith cannot rest in earthly people, events, or even majestic places like Yellowstone. Grief comes from loss, and his death was a HUGE LOSS. Yet, the God Charlie and I worship—along with many others—is growing our faith through that grief.
Yellowstone was our first stop, and after two days surrounded by its grandeur, something shifted. The sorrow began to lift. The mountains, geysers, and wildlife whispered of a Creator far greater than any pain. It was a reminder that our hope is not in this world, but in the One who made it. Yellowstone was a little slice of heaven.
From there, we traveled to Idaho to visit our son and his family. We celebrated his birthday, and then he and Grace left for a wedding out east. For six days, we had the joy of caring for our three grandchildren—a huge slice of heaven. Their laughter, their hugs, their simple joy in being kids filled our hearts. I know they enjoyed having us, but I think we enjoyed it even more. When Jared and Grace returned, refreshed and grateful, it was easy to hand the parenting reins back over. Our hearts were full.
Next, we headed to Northern California to visit dear friends who welcomed us like we were their own grandchildren. For two days, we shared stories of how God has worked in our lives. Their hospitality and love refreshed our spirits and reminded us again of the beauty of fellowship. Another slice of heaven.
Southern California was our next stop, where we were invited to speak at the church we once attended—one that has faithfully supported our ministry as Member Care Representatives for missionaries on furlough. We chose to stay in a hotel to rest between visits, and it was a wise decision. Each gathering with old friends left us speechless at the love and respect poured out on us. Ace and I may have gained a few pounds thanks to all the meals shared, but our souls were nourished far more.
After saying goodbye, we drove a couple of hours to visit Ace’s brothers—another touch of heaven. We caught up, shared stories, and enjoyed a delicious breakfast prepared by his brother. Then we met with a friend we had served alongside in Bolivia. Though she is now a widow, her ministry to children continues. Our time together was rich with memories and encouragement. Bolivia itself had been a slice of heaven, and this reunion brought it all back.
Eventually, we made our way home to Northern Minnesota. After a couple of long driving days and one hotel night, we pulled into our driveway. Our daughter came out to greet us with a hug that said everything. We had missed her as much as she missed us. Her family is a huge slice of heaven to us.
Each state we traveled through had its own beauty, but nothing compares to the beauty of people who love God and testify to His love. Being with brothers and sisters in Christ brings the kind of joy Elizabeth felt when Mary, pregnant with the Son of God, visited her
:“As soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.” —Luke 1:44
That joy—the kind that leaps within us—is what we experienced again and again. And yet, the biggest slice of heaven awaits us in eternity. Scripture tells us it will be more beautiful than any place we could visit here on earth. No sin, no sorrow—just the face of God, and life everlasting.
Throughout our travels, we heard stories of pain, suffering, and struggle. We were reminded that everyone needs to be listened to. Sin has taken a toll on this world, and the battle for believers' hearts is fierce. There is no place on earth untouched by it. But these little slices of heaven—these moments of beauty, fellowship, and grace—encourage us to keep our eyes on Him.
