Since we’ve been describing heaven as an all-inclusive vacation, it’s only fair to ask: Are pets allowed at this resort?…

We spoke a little about that first morning in heaven-- the first moments of that remarkable reunion, when sons and daughters reunite with their mothers and fathers after ages of being apart. Well, we left out one important detail in that description. We didn’t say that in the midst of all the excitement, in the midst of all the laughing and crying, just as you’re hugging your mom or dad for the first time, you shouldn’t be surprised if you suddenly feel something wet licking your hand. You shouldn't be shocked if you feel a paw anxiously poking at your leg. When you look down, you can well guess what you’re going to see-- your old, faithful dog. Only he won't be old and sick, like the last time you saw him. He’ll be young again, and he’ll be as vibrant and alive and exuberant as he was years ago, when you used to run with him and play with him for hours.

This is not pie-in-the-sky, wishful thinking. This is the truth. This is Christianity. Heaven is going to be filled with animals. Every single pet you ever had in your life is going to be there. Every dog, every cat, every parakeet, every bunny, every goldfish, every gerbil. God loses nothing…