Death. It’s a strange thing. There is something deep down in me, that says, “This isn’t right. It shouldn’t be this way.†I thought these words as I walked through town tonight after getting the news of a very good family friend who just found out he has terminal cancer only have days. “It’s not supposed to be this way.†That is what the Bible so clearly says; tonight, I’m reminded we live outside the garden. We live in a fallen, cursed world, full of death and destruction. It makes me long for something more.
Something more. More.
For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. (Romans 8:22-23)
Groaning. Longing. More.
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:3-4)
God’s bigger. No tears. No death. Newness.
So here I sit just minutes after saying good-bye to Don. As I said good-bye, through my tears, I was reminded about how Don, Les (his amazing wife) and his 3 kids took in my family after our house burned down 25 years ago and how they have consistently loved the Harrod family through the 25 years since. My heart aches for Don and Les and his family, but Don’s words were amazing – “God is good. I know where I am going, but I hurt for my family, but God is good.â€
Amazing. Sheer beauty.
Please pray for Don and Les and their family. I love you more than you know!