Life after Death.

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This is my daughter’s parakeet, Casper, shortly after he died. His death was sudden. After a day of acting perfectly normal he became ill late at night and did not live to see the morning. He was a beautiful and lively bird and then in a moment his eyes were darkened.

Death is a natural part of life here on earth. We will encounter the death of pets, friends, children and parents. We mourn our losses even when we know we’ll see them again one day in Heaven, and even more so if we are not sure. There is nothing wrong with being sad when a part of God’s beautiful creation is gone, and we are encouraged to take our time, allowing our hearts to heal. We don’t like it, but we accept that this is the way of life.

Perhaps you are mourning a different kind of loss. No funeral has been held, and few know the depth of pain in your spirit, because the person you are grieving has died a different kind of death. Your loved one is spiritually dead, and there is no opportunity for grieving outwardly because the world cannot see your loss. Some who do know may advise you this way:

“While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” he said. “Don’t bother the teacher anymore.”
Luke 8:49 New International Version

You may believe there is no hope and want to stop wasting your energy praying. Be encouraged! In Christ there is always hope!

“Meanwhile, all the people were wailing and mourning for her. “Stop wailing,” Jesus said. “She is not dead but asleep.” They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But he took her by the hand and said, “My child, get up!”  Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up.”
Luke 8:52-55 New International Version

Your loved one is not dead, but only asleep.  Never stop calling out to Jesus on their behalf. He also desires for them to live, and has the power to give them life.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado