“But he is now dead, wherefore should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.” 2 Samuel 12: 23 (KJV)
Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators of Oklahoma Spring Conference. Because it was a two-day event, I needed to arrange care for my dogs. The dachshunds were no problem, but my Catahoula required a different arrangement. I boarded him with a local Veterinarian for the weekend.
My dog was ready to be picked up on Monday. Happy to be going home, the closer we got, the more excited he became. The greeting he received from the dachshunds reflected pure joy at being reunited.
Watching my dogs reminded me of the heavenly reunion that believers will one day enjoy with loved ones who have gone on ahead. Passages in the Old and New Testament alike reassure us that we will see them again.
Matthew 17: 3-4 shows us that we will recognize each other in Heaven. Moses and Elijah maintained their identity and were known by Peter, James, and John even though they had never seen them before.
In 1 Thessalonians 4: 17, Paul encouraged the new believers to look forward to rejoining their loved ones in Heaven. The continuity between this life and the next suggests that we will renew fellowship with not only those we knew, but people of God from all ages.
Heaven is a place of supreme joy. How exciting to once again see loved ones, but most importantly, to meet our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, face to face. What a homecoming that will be.
Dear Lord,
Thank you for the assurance that ultimate joy awaits us at our heavenly homecoming.
