The Joy and Pain of Funerals

Today I went to the funeral of a friend of mine. She had been a healthy woman in her early 40's. Two weeks ago, she died unexpectedly and almost instantly of a brain aneurysm. Although, I felt heart-broken at our loss, I rejoiced in her victory. Karen is rejoicing in heaven with Jesus. She lived an exemplary life on earth and left an incredible legacy of giving and goodness.

The church was filled with friends, family and co-workers. Karen was a much-loved woman. She was from Jamaica and I loved the lilt in her voice when she spoke. I imagine her dancing under heavenly palms with the only bridgegroom she has ever known, Jesus himself.

Revelations 21:2-7
And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband.

And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them,and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away."

And He who sits on the throne said, "Behold, I am making all things new."

And He said, "Write, for these words are faithful and true."

Then He said to me, "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end I will give to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life without cost. He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son."