Revelation 7:13-17

“for the Lamb at the centre of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of the water of life, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” vs. 17

Today is All Saints’ Day, the day set aside in the liturgical calendar to recognize our connection to the Church Triumphant, all those faithful departed ones who now have rest and peace with the Lamb. And it truly is for all the saints, not just the famous ones like Catherine, Stephen, or George. Today we remember the saints who were our companions on earth, loved ones who shared our joys and sorrows, and who we miss so very much. For some it’s been less than a year, and we still can’t believe they’re gone. We see them in our dreams and hear their voices through our days. It’s as though they’re off on vacation and will be back soon, and the next time we come home they’ll be there to give us a hug. Those memories are so precious, and so very painful, and we long for consolation. By faith we believe that those loved ones have new life, that their deaths were not the end, and the promises of our scriptures do bring us comfort. We like knowing our companions are safe with Jesus and that God has wiped away every tear from their eyes. Life in this world can be painful and even a burden. We thank God for the perfect peace that now belongs to those we have loved so much.

Thought for the Day: Which memories of my loved ones are most precious?