Today I attended a funeral for the sister of a man from our church. The word that best describes my response to this service is "bittersweet."
The funeral had its bitter moments. The pastor faithfully reminded us that all death is the result of Adam's fall. All death is a consequence of sin - and death is bitter. It is the last enemy. Barring the return of Jesus, its pain is inevitable for each and every one of us. The one who was loved has been snatched beyond the reach of those who loved her. Hence, tears were shed.
However, this funeral was also sweet. She was a loving child of God. She had placed her trust in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Saviour. He had already died in her place. Her confidence was that being absent from the body meant being present with the Lord. Her Master is the Resurrection and the Life. He has conquered death. He has risen from the grave and is the First-fruits of all who trust in Him. As a result, all of the pain and suffering that she experienced here in this world has been left behind. There is no more sickness, suffering or dying where she is. She is with Jesus and, therefore we do not sorrow as those who have no hope. Sweet!
The funeral had its bitter moments. The pastor faithfully reminded us that all death is the result of Adam's fall. All death is a consequence of sin - and death is bitter. It is the last enemy. Barring the return of Jesus, its pain is inevitable for each and every one of us. The one who was loved has been snatched beyond the reach of those who loved her. Hence, tears were shed.
However, this funeral was also sweet. She was a loving child of God. She had placed her trust in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Saviour. He had already died in her place. Her confidence was that being absent from the body meant being present with the Lord. Her Master is the Resurrection and the Life. He has conquered death. He has risen from the grave and is the First-fruits of all who trust in Him. As a result, all of the pain and suffering that she experienced here in this world has been left behind. There is no more sickness, suffering or dying where she is. She is with Jesus and, therefore we do not sorrow as those who have no hope. Sweet!
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