I remember very vividly the moment my mom took her last breath on this earth. I was overwhelmed by mixed emotions – joy that she was finally free from this earthly body and seeing her beloved Savior face to face, but sad that she would no longer physically be with us.
At that moment, in the midst of grief, I was comforted by the reality of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and how that impacts lives every day. I could find comfort in seeing my mom take her last breath because I knew she was in her eternal home experiencing things beyond anything I could imagine. She wouldn’t be changing residences anymore. She was HOME!
We’re all going to take that last breath one day. But we need not fear death. Because of an empty tomb, we can have peace when that day comes. The grave is not the end of life for those who put their trust in Jesus Christ. It’s just the beginning of a life far better than anything we’ve experienced on this earth — a life face to face with Jesus.
As we celebrate Easter this Sunday, let’s give thanks for His death and Resurrection.
As Paul said in 1 Corinthians 15:55, 57:
“O death, where is your sting . . . but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
He is risen!
I vividly remember when my dad took his final breath, too. It was on a Good Friday, so it made this day all the more poignant for me. Easter gave such hope–hope that my family needed. Praise God that He’s left us with that hope.
Oh, Heather, wow – Good Friday will forever have that special meaning of your dad’s homegoing. Mom went HOME right before Christmas, and I remember thinking, she’s going to have the best Christmas ever! Thankful for the hope that Jesus gives us. Thanks for sharing!
Hallelujah, The joy in the midst of grieving a lost loved believer, The Resurrection. I had a similar experience with my grandmother. I was heartbroken yet filled with joy knowing she would be pain free dancing with Jesus. Beautiful post, Crickett. THank you.
Thanks, Cherrilynn! So thankful for the hope that the Resurrection gives us. Thanks for sharing!