But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning
those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For
if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him
those who sleep in Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14
These verses from Paul's teachings to the Thessalonians
speak loudly to me today as I am harshly confronted with the death of a loved
one. In the last eight years, my brother
Dan, one of six brothers, has suffered greatly with depression and emotional
trauma and has self-medicated with alcohol.
Chronic liver disease has been the result.
Dan passed away this past week, October 15th, after
prolonged mental, emotional, and physical suffering. It was very difficult for his two children,
siblings, mother, and adoring students to watch. (Dan had been an outstanding high school art
teacher for over 30 years, and had made a major difference in many young
lives.). Our hopes for recovery,
healing, and life were continually annihilated.
We all suffered much pain and anguish, most especially his two adult
children.
I have lost someone who was a tremendously large part of my
life, who I loved and admired so, as did my children and grandchildren. With his death, I am trying hard to deal with
my intense pain by looking inward to my Faith, and upward to Heaven, for
comfort and peace. This verse gives me
great comfort. ".....even so God
will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus." Dan had a strong Faith and has to be now in
Heaven, with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, where he is experiencing
utter peace and joy, unlike a thing I can know or even imagine. Rest in peace, my special, loving brother!
Prayer: Father God, all merciful Father, please
surround those of us tortured by the Loss of my brother Dan, with peace and
serenity, knowing that you have lifted Dan upward to rest eternally with
you. I pray for healing for each of us,
his children, mother, siblings, nieces and nephews, cousins, and all those who
are suffering pain and loss. Thank you
for your endless mercy!
Connie Barry
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