by Victoria Heinecke

Forever with Jesus.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’”
 Matthew 19:14 New International Version

The inscription on the wall behind this statue reads: “When a loved one becomes a memory, that memory becomes a treasure.” Experiencing the passing of a loved one is never joyful, and as we grasp to find some comfort in it, we may reflect on fond memories with that person. However, we still miss their presence with us.

We can find comfort by visualizing that, in Heaven, they’re free from the frailties of old age or illness. We imagine that they’re out of wheelchairs, in perfect health. Sometimes we even put wings on them, as if they’re angels. It’s not always Biblical, but the knowledge that one day we’ll be reunited in the Church Triumphant brings much comfort.

“Do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. “
1 Thessalonians 4:13b-14 New International Version

From one perspective, this statue appears to be Jesus hugging a person. From another view, Jesus is holding a smiling child. It invites us to reflect on the knowledge that, no matter how old or young we are, we are all precious to God – lambs of the Good Shepherd.

Many years ago, I attended the funeral of an octogenarian member of our church. He was a choir member with a clear tenor voice, and we sang everything from hymns to Handel together. I was a new Christian at the time, and I wondered why he chose “I Am Jesus’ Little Lamb” among his memorial hymns. Today, I think I understand that he was affirming the simple faith of his childhood.

“Who so happy as I am,
Even now the Shepherds lamb?
And when my short life is ended,
By His angel host attended,
He shall fold me to His breast,
There within his arms to rest.”
Lutheran Service Book #740, verse 3

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado