and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first-fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we await adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. for in this hope we are saved. now hope that is seen is not hope. for who hopes in what he sees? but if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.  [romans 8:23-25]
 
the Lord has given us a taste of eternity in giving us his Holy Spirit.
He has given us a taste of the son and daughter-ship that Christ has purchased for us in this life. we now know in part the fullness of joy, peace, and presence of the Lord! but what we know now in part, we hope for the day we will know in full! the victory over our sin we rejoice over now will be complete in that day! no more anxiety, no more temptation, no more striving after wind—only the Father’s arms! for God’s chosen, that day is certain, and we can wait for it with endurance! we can still mourn with those who mourn and lift up the wearied soul, but we know this affliction is momentary. the time we spend here in struggle, sin, and death does not compare to the eternity we will spend with Christ!
Lord, in light of the perfect eternity we await, may You grant us endurance, unction, peace, and urgency to do your work; the time for eternal rest is coming—now is the time to work the fields! teach us to find our rest in Your easy yoke and light burden, and teach us to find our joy in our obedience to You.
 
~ stephen hall