God's Glory Church

“And the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return again to God who gave it.” — Ecclesiastes 12:7

I sat down in the church pew behind my friend. The worship group has just started singing the song “I Can Only Imagine”. Raising my hands, I praised God. The sweet soprano of Louise, my friend, sounded in harmony with my voice. Later, she told me about her health problems and we decided to pray together for her cancer treatment.

A few months later, Louise said she was afraid of dying. Leaning over her bed, I put my head next to hers, whispered a prayer and softly sang our song. I can only imagine how, just a few days later, Louise was already worshiping Jesus in His direct presence.

The apostle Paul comforted his readers who were facing death (2 Cor. 5:1). Suffering on this side of eternity can cause sadness, but our hope is rooted in heavenly life, in an eternal stay with Jesus Christ (vv. 2-4). Although God created us with a desire for eternal life with Him (vv. 5-6), His promises are to affect our life for Him now (vv. 7-10).

Living for Jesus and waiting for His coming or for our call to return home, let us rejoice in the peace of His constant presence. What will we feel the moment we leave our earthly bodies and enter eternity with Jesus? We can only imagine!

When have you felt overwhelmed by the death or loss of a loved one? How are you encouraged by God’s promise of eternal life?

Loving God, thank you for your promise to be with me on earth and in eternity.

Author: Sosheel Dixon