Loss and Pain - Remembering Our Loved Ones

From far away, the Lord    will appear to his people.The Lord says, “I love you people with a love that continues forever.    That is why I have continued showing you kindness.Jeremiah 31:3

I was beyond saddened to hear the news that my Kindergarten teacher's daughter passed away in her sleep Saturday night. I had just seen my former teacher at church on Sabbath morning. We talked for a brief moment and went our separate ways. I can't wrap my mind around the fact that at that very moment neither of us new that pain and devastation was just around the corner.

I don't understand God's ways. I'm not supposed to understand - and neither are you. It is hard to let go of the people we love on this earth. It is so hard not to wonder what God's plan was for this girl's life. She was very young and had her whole life ahead of her. I can't seem to come up with a "good enough" reason for this loss. All I can assure myself with is that God knows all. He understands our pain and He wants us to go to Him with it.

I can sit and think of many "reasons" why maybe her life had to end early...but it's no use. It may just be that my mind is too consumed with this world. I am hurting for her family and the loved ones she left behind that are mourning her loss and want her back. I can feel their pain and I can understand their selfishness. But maybe it isn't about all that. Maybe it's about understanding that this world is just about over. It's about realizing that just around the corner we will be going to our new home - heaven.

In these times we must remember that God told us this was not our home. He promised us a perfect place. When our loved ones are taken from this place we have confidence that the next thing they will see is Jesus' face. Those we lose may be done with this life here on earth, but they are awaiting Christ's return like the rest of us. They are waiting peacefully for Him to wake them up and call them home.

But with your kindness    you led the people you saved.And with your strength    you led them to your holy land.Exodus 15:13 

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8