Let’s be real for a second: when was the last time you actually thought about heaven? Is it a hazy, childhood vision of floating clouds and harp music, or does it fill your heart with a deep sense of peace and joy?

John Morales talks about this with Fr. Jerome Koutnik, and wow, does this conversation give you a heavenly perspective. (Spoiler: heaven is way more amazing than a soda fountain in the sky. 🥤☁️)

What Is Heaven, Really?

Fr. Jerome (celebrating 25 years as a priest: congrats, Father! 🎉) gives us a refreshingly clear vision of heaven. Ready for this? Heaven isn’t a place you plug into Google Maps. It’s not physical: it’s transcendent.

St. Paul nails it in 1 Corinthians 2:9: “Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man, what God has prepared for those who love Him.” Translation: Heaven is beyond anything you can imagine, better than your dream vacation, your coziest day at home, or even your favorite meal. (Yes, even pizza. 🍕✨)

Jesus' Ascension 🌟

When Jesus ascended into heaven, it wasn’t about Him zooming off into outer space 🚀. It was a sign: a powerful, symbolic moment. Jesus was showing us that heaven isn’t limited to the physical. It’s about glorified existence, where body and soul are united in God’s infinite love.

Fr. Jerome points out that Jesus’ risen body, along with Mary and St. Joseph’s, is present in heaven, but not in a way we can fully understand. Heaven isn’t about being stuck in one place: it’s a spiritual reality that goes beyond time and space. 

The Mass: Heaven on Earth ⛪✨

Every time you go to Mass, you’re stepping into heaven. For real. The Eucharist is the real presence of Jesus Christ. And when you receive Him, you’re participating in the eternal heavenly liturgy. Think of Mass as a preview of heaven’s never-ending worship and joy.

So, Where Is Heaven? 🤔

In case you’re still wondering, Fr. Jerome sums it up beautifully: heaven is in the heart of Christ. It’s not about clouds or golden gates: it’s about being in the presence of eternal love, mercy, and joy.

Doesn’t that sound incredible? Heaven is where you’re fully known and fully loved. And the best part? Jesus invites us to start living for heaven right now.

Quick Takeaways for Your Heart ❤️:

Heaven isn’t a “place”: it’s a transcendent, spiritual reality.

Jesus’ ascension shows us what glorified existence looks like.

The bodies of Jesus, Mary, and St. Joseph are in heaven in a glorified, timeless way.

Mass is a chance to step into heaven on earth: don’t take it for granted!

Heaven is in the heart of Christ: where love and mercy reign forever.

So, friend, how are you living for heaven today?

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