Daily Devotional for October 5, 2022

Before coming to serve as pastor of our church, Nancy was the only member of the congregation I knew.  I loved her before I became her pastor.
 
Last week, Nancy and her daughter, Mary, were in Branson, Missouri.  They had tickets to see the show “Jesus.”
 
Sadly, while in Missouri, Nancy had a stroke and was hospitalized.  
 
As Mary visited with other members of their family while they were in Nancy’s hospital room, she made the comment they would not get to see Jesus.  Then she said, “We are not going to see Jesus, but Mom will see Jesus before we do.”
 
Truer words were never spoken.
 
What our faith tells us is at this very moment, Nancy is looking into the beautiful face of the One who saved her.  She sees Jesus.
 
Someday, each of us will close our eyes and when we open them, we will be looking into the face of God. That will be a wonderful day.  This is the reason we don’t fear death.  But if we are still in this world, there’s a reason.  God has designed each of us for a specific task and we can never be whole until we fulfill our true purpose.
 
This is what Paul meant by saying, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.  If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know!  I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.”  (Philippians 1:21-24)
 
I will miss Nancy, but I know where she is.  I am happy for her.
 
Prayer:  Gracious Heavenly God, as I walk through this life, help me live it in such a way, that I bring a smile to your face.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.
 
Right now, there’s a party in heaven because a sister has come home.   She sees Jesus.  That’s a good thing.
 
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins