In John 14:1 when Jesus says he goes to prepare for me and will return to take me there when the time comes I am reminded of my own preparations for having children. First, I spent years working and saving so we'd have a downpayment to buy a townhouse with a small backyard. We were able to do this by living on Ken's income and saving mine. This also would enable me to stay home full-time with my children since we were not dependent on my income. I was preparing not only the house but the home I longed to give my children. Second, when the time finally came I prepared the bedroom for our baby and made the rest of the house safe for a toddler. Eventually we moved to a larger home and yard as we planned for more children and the more laid-back community we desired for them. I can't begin to imagine what Jesus is preparing for my homecoming!