"Therefore since we are surrounded by such a great
cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders, and the sin that
so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for
us." (Hebrews 12:1 NIV)
I had waited a long time but finally the day arrived. Seated on the plane I
wondered what it would be like to see everyone again. So much had changed. Some
friends had faced tragedies. Others were terminally ill and in nursing homes. A
few had moved away or changed careers. Some had died while others had prospered.
Although the flight time was lengthy and I had moments of boredom and fidgeting,
suddenly the pilot was announcing our destination. My sister and grand daughter
were waiting at the airport to pick me up. How wonderful it was to embrace them
and know we would be having time together.
The next day we went to visit my brother in law who was adjusting to his new
situation in a care facility. The following 48 hours brought a joyous time of
reunion with my old friends from my last pastorate, as well as some quiet
moments at the cemetery to whisper my final good-bye to another dear one.
Later in the week my cousins gathered for a family potluck and a walk down
memory lane. Lastly a quick drop-in visit with a former co-worker and friend
finished my time of vacation.
On my journey home I found myself contemplating how this God given opportunity
to visit and catch up with so many wonderful friends and family was just a taste
of how incredibly glorious it will be when we all get to heaven!
Right now it is by faith that we know we are surrounded by those who have gone
ahead. But one day, before too long we will each reach the end of our earthly
stay. We will move past the things of this life that entangle and seek to slow
us down in our individual races to become Christ-like. And on that marvelous day
of spiritual freedom our perseverance of faith in Christ will usher us in to His
presence. The presence of our brother, friend, Lord and Saviour, Jesus who
through his life, death and resurrection has made it possible for us, his
followers, to enjoy the greatest family reunion the universe can now, only
imagine!
Prayer: Father God, encourage us this day to persevere in our Christian faith.
Strengthen our weary frames. Bless us with encouragement and continued hope to
not only look forward to that great and glorious reunion which is yet to come,
but also to wonderful presence of the Spirit of Jesus, available to us right
here and now, this very moment. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
Lynne Phipps Atlin BC
lynnephipps@hotmail.com
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
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The Nugget: Published three times a week, this newsletter features inspirational devotionals and mini-sermons dedicated to drawing mankind closer to each other and to Christ.