For instance, we know that when these bodies of ours are taken down like tents and folded away, they will be replaced by resurrection bodies in heaven—God-made, not handmade—and we’ll never have to relocate our “tents” again. Sometimes we can hardly wait to move—and so we cry out in frustration. Compared to what’s coming, living conditions around here seem like a stopover in an unfurnished shack, and we’re tired of it! We’ve been given a glimpse of the real thing, our true home, our resurrection bodies! The Message

For many years, I was involved in leading a ten day youth camp in the North West of England. We were based in a rather remote and beautiful part of the northern Lake district. For this relatively short period of time I could (sort of) enjoy the novelty of sleeping in a tent, washing in cold water, and pretty much living in my wellington boots. But when camp was taken down, how glad was I to drive home to my little house in Leeds; to have a hot bath and sleep in a comfortable bed? You can imagine, I’m sure.

There was a lot to enjoy about summer camp, and I’m grateful for so many happy memories. But camp was temporary; and when I think back to those days, I think get a feel for what Paul is saying here. Camp is just ”a stopover”. Camp life is fleeting and transitory; but home is home. We have an unsatisfied hunger for ”the real thing”.