Grieving With Hope

     My heart is heavy as my oldest and dearest friend gets ready to say her earthly goodbyes to the love of her life. They met as teenagers and have been together for over 40 years. Heaven awaits Steve. There is relief ahead in his suffering and his family and friends know that. No one wants to watch him suffer from the brain tumor any longer.

     Moving ahead in a life so different, in a life where a part of you is gone is impossibly difficult. The memories will comfort, the love they shared can never be taken away, and those who love their family will surround them. And Paul reminds us of our hope.

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14

     We grieve. We grieve with hope. Eternity awaits. Heaven will bring Steve home soon. And each step we walk in life will bring us closer to being together forever. Hope remains.

Jesus,

Comfort those who grieve. We grieve with hope, but our hearts break through our goodbyes. Love brings pain, but we savor the love we have, even if it is for a short time. Thank You for loving us and for bringing us home to You.

Amen