A Heavenly Celebration

Last time I wrote I introduced my blog ‘unfinished business’. The whole point of this blog was to write about my thoughts and reflections on readings for one of my Kuyper classes. But I also mentioned that I would be throwing in a little life in general at the same time.

Today is one of those times.

Thoughts and questions race through my mind today as I sit and wonder why so many people had to part with a friend, a father, a husband, a brother.

I've known Gene for a number of years. He and his wife attend the same church that I grew up in and am still a part of. Not only did I see him each Sunday singing and worshiping in the church pews, or sit and enjoy a chat, I and many others also had the joy of spending multiple high school mission trips with Gene and his wife.

Last night I learned that Heaven gained this precious man.

My question for you: How does one handle the pain of death, the sudden loss of someone so dear to you? (Is there really an answer to that?)

We lost a good man; patient, hilarious and always armed with a new story. Today there is a Gene shaped hole in my heart. But there is HOPE.

A few verses in Psalm 126 says this:

"Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them."

That is my prayer for the people who carry the loss of Gene with them today. That we remember that songs of JOY are coming, no matter how dark, meaningless, and hopeless today feels.  (A friend, who also blogs, wrote about grief just last week. I recommend reading her words of wisdom Here)

I don’t wish Gene back to this earth. Not for one second would I wish him back to the pain and suffering that were his last few months. I do however long for the day when I see his wife and family, loved ones and friends reunited with this man. But until that day comes I choose to work towards and help others work towards the joy that follows the darkness of today.

From the words of my sister Stephanie:

“I wonder if Jesus leans on a shovel up in the heavenly realms as he supervises what's going on down here on earth. If he does, I know right where Gene-o is standing this morning. He's got his own shovel to lean on and he's talking Jesus' ear off about his lovely wife, wonderful family, and telling all sorts of stories.”

Images like those are what make today a little less painful, that bring a smile to my face, and a quiet chuckle as I imagine Gene watching us from Heaven.

Enjoy the Heavenly Celebration Gene; Looking forward to seeing you again one day.