A New Heaven and A New Earth

Today was an especially hard day. I attended the memorial service of a three month-old baby. I have stayed away from the other funerals my husband has had because of taking care of the children. I also haven't know any of the members that have passed (most were shut-ins) until today. Just the thought of a funeral is heart wrenching. Although I know the beloved family member is in a much better place, the sorrow felt by the remaining family members can be overwhelming to watch. It is not natural to bury a baby. I was astounded how the service brought about so much comfort. Throughout the service, we were reminded of the condition the world is in and why such tragedies happen. The best part is that we have been rescued from this afflicted world in Jesus Christ on the cross. We all shed tears, our hearts ached, but at the same time we held on to hope. The end of the service was concluded with the following scripture.

Revelation 21:1-7
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning nor crying nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." And he who was seated on the throne said, "Behold, I am making all things new." Also he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." And he said to me, "It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment. The one who conquers will have this heritage, and I will be his God and he will be my son."

What wonderful words to cling to in a time of loss. My prayers go out to this family who have endured such a tragedy. May the Lord sustain and strengthen their faith through Jesus Christ our Lord.