April 27, 2024

I lost a special friend today. She left her home here on earth for a perfect one in heaven. My friend has been transformed. For years, she struggled with health issues. For years her strength dwindled until she was mostly bedfast. For years her faithful husband lovingly cared for her needs. She was living out 11 Corinthians 4:16 ESV. “So we do not lose heart. Though our outward self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.” Her physical body was wasting away, but inwardly she was becoming new. Little by little her physical being declined, but her spirit was being renewed. Transformation was taking place–until today. Transformation completed, she is fully In the presence of Jesus. She has a new body, glowing with health, no sickness, no pain, nothing but rejoicing with her Lord. How wonderful it is that when we leave this earth we will be in the Lord’s presence–forever!

The transformation for my friend was a painful, long, slow, journey. My brother’s transformation happened instantly. One day, all appeared well as he went about his normal duties. He ate lunch with his wife, took a nap, and worked in his woodshop. That afternoon, without any notice, he left his earthly home for his heavenly one. Transformation had taken place.

In both cases, God’s presence was there to bring the needed strength, comfort, and peace. The loved ones left behind may not always have realized how near God was in their most grief-stricken moments. Nevertheless, it was true. After all, God promised never to leave or abandon His children. And He didn’t. And He won’t–in all the days to come.

Be encouraged!

And join me next time,

Charlotte