Brothers and sisters, we want you to know about those who have died. We don’t want you to be sad like other people—those who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died, but we also believe that he rose again. So we believe that God will raise to life through Jesus any who have died and bring them together with him when he comes. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 (ERV)
There was a spirit of Christmas cheer in the air but one of my friends felt melancholy. It was her first holiday season without her father. She said, “There was traffic everywhere, so I decided to pass the time in Rockwell last night.” Rockwell is one of the newest malls in the business district.
“As I walked through the parking lot, I felt a bit sad as I remembered Father and his harmonica.” The first shop at the mall entrance was a music store which fed her wistful thinking. “I used to frequent that store in search of a Hohner harmonica for Father. Had he been around, I might have gotten him a harmonica for Christmas.”
Anyone who has had a loved one pass away knows what my dear friend felt. I know I do. I miss my aunt and frequently dreamed about her the year following her death. The longing for those we’ve lost can be so painful that sometimes only a promise of a reunion in heaven can bring comfort.
Jesus promised that He will come back for us and reunite us with our departed loved ones who believed in Him. Until then, we will keep cherishing our memories of them and keep holding on to His promise which He will surely soon fulfill.
Faith Step: Turn to God for comfort as you overcome grief. Give yourself time and space to mourn the passing of a loved one, accepting the comfort that Jesus gives.
