Ephesians 4:22-24 “that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, … and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which … has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.”

The word “home” conjured up feelings of warmth and belonging for many recently. Our small town enjoyed an influx of activity as previous students came to enjoy homecoming festivities at our local high school.

On Saturday, Abigail and her teammates played in their sectional tournament volleyball match and then rushed home to change clothing, fix hair and pick up flowers for the annual homecoming dance. These memories will stay with them always and hopefully draw them home again after graduating.

This summer I experienced a different type of homecoming. While traveling in New Jersey, our family visited sites from my childhood where much hadn’t changed.

I enjoyed meandering through fond memories of days gone by, but I can’t really say I went home that day. Twenty-five years ago I left and established a new home.

My husband and I moved here, and this is where I have settled down. My old memories are joined by new memories, new people, new customs and new experiences. This is where I have raised my children. This is now where I call “home.”

Before knowing Jesus, each person is at home in a world that is separate from God. The things that come naturally for sinners shape our attitudes and actions, as well as our beliefs and motivations. But when we come to know Jesus as our personal Savior, things change.

We lay aside the activities and beliefs that we were at home with in the past, and we develop new attachments and paths. We become renewed in the spirit of our minds and the old haunts of selfish lusts seem out of place and uncomfortable.

Instead we are drawn toward the righteousness and holiness of truth that comes from God. These are things we desire and long to imitate. This mindset and the relationship we have with our Savior and other believers typify the place we now identify as our real home. It is where we truly belong.

We will always have special memories we carry with us on this earth. There are places we might revisit and people that will be forever emblazoned on our hearts. But those who know Jesus Christ as their Savior have found a new place to call home.

Someday we will gather together in heaven to spend eternity where we really belong. When we arrive there will be much fanfare and excitement, with a feeling of comfort and peace. And beyond a shadow of a doubt that day will be the best homecoming of all.

Sandra Sheridan is a Midwest wife and mother of five. She shares her messages to her children with Farm World. Visit her at www.VersesFromMama.com