Scriptural Foundation:
Hebrews 12:1-2 New King James Version (NKJV)
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Reflection:
My Dad passed away last week. Similar to the transition to life – a birthing mother in immense pain followed by relief after her child is born – the reverse – a loved one passing on to glory is relief that your loved one is no longer suffering followed by the immense pain of the void that person’s absence has left in your life. My heart knows without a shadow of a doubt that when our days end on this earth we will be going home to be with Jesus.
We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.
– 2 Corinthians 5:8
In spite of my heart knowing this, it wasn’t until now I realized that my mind never really grasped it.
After moving around a lot as a child, I was a professional about leaving people behind. As an adult, the Lord has very much rooted me in one place. From this vantage point the seasons of life still changed, but other people are the ones leaving my life. I have had close friends in the Lord move away; while others drift away for other social spaces; and still others get offended and fall away from our fellowship. My Dad’s passing was the first time that I had personally experienced the heartbreak of a heavenly transition. Honestly, a little part of me was jealous because of all that there is in store for us in eternity, at the same time there is so much to do in this lifetime.
For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith,that your rejoicing for me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ by my coming to you again. – Philippians 1:23-26
In our foundational scripture it talks about a great cloud of witnesses. The Holy Spirit truly knows how to prepare one’s soul.
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
A word like ‘witnesses’ becomes more personal when you are able to picture a person you have known and loved in that cloud. My Dad became one of those witnesses this past week. Believe you me, I don’t ascribe to the belief that our loved ones are up in Heaven just watching our lives in real time. However, I do believe that there are defining spiritual moments in all of our lives that this cloud of witnesses is watching God’s glory manifest itself through you and I here on earth.
In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. – Matthew 6:9-10
My Dad left a gap on this side of Heaven for myself and my family, but he also illuminated my mind to the truth – the truth that my heart already knew – the Kingdom of Heaven is a destination. I have never laid my eye upon Jesus, but I am excited when that time comes. Until then, I must keep running my race and hoping that every now and again, there will be moments that will draw the great cloud of witnesses to see what the Lord has done in my life. In that joy, I will celebrate the love I have for my Heavenly Father and remember my Dad as he is, radiant in the glory of the Lord.
Seeking Revelation:
Grab your notebook:
- What challenging situation are you facing today? God has a “app” for that – find a scripture(s) that speaks directly to that situation.
- Meditate on them daily until revelation comes. Once your spirit is awakened to the truth continue renewing your mind so that can it also can be illuminated to the truth of God’s Word.
- Remember, in all seasons give praise to the One that restores your soul.