by Victoria Heinecke
Sadness turned to joy.
You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.
“Let not your hearts be troubled…In my Father’s house are many rooms.“
John 14:1a-2 New International Version (NIV)
The wedding plans had been prepared for months. It was to be a special occasion, and everything had to be just right. It was to be a feast for the bridegroom and the bride, shared among the attendants and all of the guests. There were thank-you bags for each guest. Food and drink was abundant. There was dancing, singing, and words of congratulations to the newly married couple. The celebration went on, well into the night.
The venue looked like a large house, and every window was brightly lit. Amid the darkness, the lights reflected the joy inside.
Weddings are celebrations to mark a milestone of life – the joining of a couple to a lifetime commitment.
Today, on All Saints’ Day, we remember our loved ones – friends and family – who have passed away. It’s a paradox: we are sad that they are no longer among us, and yet we are comforted by the assurance that they are with the Lord in Heaven.
It’s the final earthly milestone before eternal joy with God.
“Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
Revelation 21:3b-5 NIV
On this All Saints’ Day, many of us will be remembering loved ones who died in the past year. We remember them and cherish the time spent together, cleaving to the assurance that we will all be united with God at the end.
What a celebration that will be!
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.”
Psalm 23:6 NIV
Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Thank you Vicki for the timely words of strength. The past two weeks our church family said goodbye to a sweet 90 year old gentleman who went home to Jesus, leaving his bride of 70 years. We’ve also lost a sister in Christ, 55, who is now by Jesus’ side. She left behind 3 children and her husband of 31 years. God’s plan is always mighty. Both Harry and Jo Anne are now in their forever Home. We pray that all families who are in mourning over the loss of a loved one will see God’s shining glory, even when it’s hard to understand the “why” sometimes. To God be the glory!