10.19.18 Praise & Prayer Prompt: The First Day in Heaven

PRAISE & PRAYER PROMPT ••• In the 1 1/2 years I’ve been doing these prayer prompts, I’ve always created the corresponding graphic.
But today, I hope the artist will forgive me, but I’m borrowing this painting called “The First Day in Heaven.”
2 Corinthians 5:8 says that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord, and last night, my Mamo met Jesus face-to-face.
I’m overwhelmed by this loss, namely because we didn’t see it coming.
We have a very small family — it’s been me, my husband, my son, my mom, and my grandparents.
I call us the Family Twig.
My grandfather passed seven years ago, and his death left a gaping hole in our little family.
Now we’ve lost her.
But all week, the Holy Spirit has reminded me that Jesus wept (John 11:35).
Jesus knew Lazarus could be raised from the dead, but still, He understood grief.
And with this loss in our family, Jesus celebrates my Mamo’s homecoming but understands my hurting heart.
And because of His sacrifice on the cross, I know there’s a reunion in the future.
I know this hurt isn’t exclusive to us; all over the world and every day, people begin seasons of grief, just as they begin seasons of celebrations.
And I told my family this week, I’ve learned some major life lessons this week…
And through those lessons, I’ve been reminded that it’s my responsibility to be the hands and feet of Jesus when others are hurting.
I’ve learned that no matter how casual the relationship, words of comfort are priceless.
And I’ve been reminded of the importance of being present and in-the-moment with the people I care about.
I’ve seen Jesus in so many ways this week…
And I pray that through this, Jesus will use me to serve someone else.
Today, as you pray, thank Jesus that because He rose from the dead, the end is not the end.
Thank Him for His gift of salvation and the promises of eternal life and joyful reunions.
And once again, I pray you will remember our little family as you pray.
Many of you have reached out and I’m so grateful for your words of encouragement and your prayers.