Heaven is Near
Heaven is Near
“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.—John 14:1-3
While visiting a dying lady, the family got up and left in order to give the pastor some privacy alone with her. They had recently taken her off dialysis and were sending her to hospice care today. She appeared quite alert yet emotional. I asked her if she was ready die, and she responded that she was. However, she expressed her concern for those who would be left behind. We talked about heaven and how there would be no more pain, sorrow, or tears there. He desire was that God would give her enough to do in heaven. To keep her busy. As we talked of heaven my eyes filled with tears – tears of sadness and joy. Tears that she would be gone, yet tears of joy that she would be going Home. I talked with her family after I had left the room in the course of the conversation found out that they used to attend a church I know when they were children. What a small world. They shared that the organist of that church used to pick them up for church in a large car. It is a privilege to meet someone who is dying, yet so ready to go to heaven. She will have some rough days ahead more emotionally, but God will be with her. I am sure of that! Praise his name! I shared this with the organist (per the family’s request) who went to visit the bedside of this dear lady at hospice. This lady passed away a few weeks later to rest in the Lord. Praise the Lord for a saint had gone Home.
Death is difficult for those left behind. It can also be a frightening event for those who are not prepared to die. God will walk with us, for we are not alone even in death. He loves us so much and will gently lead us into a life that is eternally with Him forever and ever. He is preparing a place beyond our imaginations that will be filled with no sin, no tears, or fears ever again. He is God and we can trust in Him and find comfort in death because a loved one has went Home to be with Jesus. ©Rev. Jeanne McIntosh 2011.
