Life comprises a lot of departures and arrivals. In fact, these kinds of emotions write love letters on all our hearts. Different seasons. Different events. The ups and downs of life. Here’s a thought to help navigate and even appreciate those seasons:
Recently a pastor friend officiated at his sister’s funeral, and it was a tough day. As always, he meticulously prepared a sermon, hoping to honor her and his God. Sometime during the sermon, he deviated from the script, because he had a marvelous thought.
He likened the passing of a loved one to saying good-bye at an airport. We can easily imagine that, because most of us have been there at sometime or other. But then, he said, at the arrival end of a trip are the greeters, the ones who cheer and welcome their loved ones with open arms. Life journeys are like that, he said.
So be comforted today if you are grieving a loss. Think about the company of loved ones on the arrival side of life in heaven–the parents, siblings, grandparents, great grandparents, and all sorts of other relatives and friends–the list is glorious.
Be grateful for such a great hope and know that all is well.
Moreover, ponder this: Ecclesiastes 3:11 says God has put eternity in our hearts.
I stand amazed.
Copyright © Marianne McDonough 2022
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