I Rejoice With Thanks   by C D Swanson

 

When a loved one departs from this world it’s those left behind that inherently feel the suffocating anguish of the “temporary” separation.  It’s as if our heart has been ripped from our chest.

We feel shattered by the realization that we won’t see our loved one any longer in this world.  Yet, at the same time—As believers—we feel gratifying peace knowing that the heavens rejoice as our dearly departed are ushered into God’s presence and reunited with loved ones who’ve gone before them. So, in fact…we rejoice.  

I celebrate His love for me, my mother, dad, and others.  And, I rejoice in all things unto the Lord…and I rejoice in knowing that we will never die, but live forever. 

My beautiful mother passed away last Wednesday, May 13, 2015.  May 13 is my birthday— ironically—and through God’s bountiful blessings—the last time she’d been admitted into a hospital was when she delivered me into this world.  So, in essence, without revealing my age—let’s say it’s been well over half a century.

It was fairly quick. Although she’d been battling medical issues through the past ten years, you’d never guess it…She never complained, and she looked so gorgeous all the time. In fact, people were beyond shocked to learn she was 86 years old.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:4, “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.”   And there is a significant amount of comfort as I embrace God at this time of grieving. I cling to His word, and His direction more than ever…and know I’ll get through it with His divine help.  Family and friends are supportive, and offer their condolences, and it is immensely appreciated and part of the process in this journey.  However, it doesn’t compare to the satisfaction within my soul, sensing God’s peace, as His right hand upholds me, while sustaining me fully, in the aftermath of losing my “mom.”

My mother is fully alive. She’s bristling with vitality, endless energy, and unparalleled beauty. No longer is she prisoner inside her “flesh body” that was worn out, aching considerably, run down with broken parts and labored breathing.  She is alive—alive— vibrant and glowing brightly in the brilliant light and presence of our Lord.

“And, God shall wipe away all tears form their eyes: and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” Rev 21:4

Jesus Christ died for us. He came to earth, born of the Virgin Mary to fulfill the scriptures of His Father in heaven…and to save us from eternal damnation…and to offer us eternal salvation.

For those who believe, we know that we’ll be in heaven and our gift is eternal life.  We shall never die, but return to our former home with our Father…in Paradise.

Jesus assures us and promises us this: “I am the resurrection, and the ‘life’: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.  And whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die.  Believest thou this?”  John 11:25-25 KJV

My mother loved Jesus and knew He was her Lord and Savior, I’ve no doubt she is with Him…and my loving earth dad who passed away in 1999.

The angels, my dad, many departed family members and friends,  and most especially, the Lord, are celebrating her triumphant return even as I type—for doing a magnificent job on earth—I’m sure the Lord said, “welcome home my faithful servant, well done…well done indeed.”

God is peace, and He is the Rock of salvation. He is our defense, and our refuge.  He is a merciful loving and Sovereign God that soothes, comforts and provides for all of our needs.  He speaks to us through His word and His presence from within, the Holy Spirit.

So, for any of you mourning the loss of a loved one…remember it is those left behind that will ultimately suffer and miss their presence here on earth—but, understand this— how amazingly joyful to know we’ll see them again, one day in the future. Until then, hold on to the memories, encase them in your heart, and be so thankful that you had them in your life for as long as you did.  Treasure the moments…until you create new ones one day in the future in your “permanent home.”

I love You Lord....

Thank You Father for giving me such a kind, loving, compassionate, generous, mother…she was a gift and a treasure to me, and so many others.   

My mom delivered me on May 13, all those years ago…and You “delivered her back home” on the same day… sealed spiritually with my Mom forever more.

 “Father, please give her a hug for me and tell her I love her and will miss her always, until we meet again…” 

 

“…Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever…” Psalm 23:6 

 

 

 

 

 

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