This
Isn’t Right!
Brothers and sisters, we do not want
you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do
not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.
1 Thessalonians 4:13
Melodee watched as the two grandfathers
carried the tiny casket to the graveside. One thought consumed her,
Babies aren’t supposed to die! This isn’t right…!
Nothing about Hope’s short life had
been right. She wasn’t meant to be born three months premature; her
tiny little heart wasn’t supposed to be on the right side of her
underdeveloped chest; and she surely wasn’t supposed to live for
seven months only to be taken away!
Melodee was lost in thought for most of
the eulogy. But then a change in pastor’s voice inflection drew her
back to the moment. “Hope has preceded us in death. But she is not
here,” he proclaimed. “This little body was only temporary
housing. And although it’s difficult, we rejoice in her physical
death, because today,” the pastor roared, startling everyone, “Hope
is dancing with Jesus!” he shouted, pumping his fist in a
victorious gesture. And uncharacteristically, the people joined the
celebration!
Melodee anguished, I know what he’s
saying is the truth, Lord. But right now that’s not much comfort!
Not for me…not for Roger…especially not for Seth and Shirley!
This isn’t right!
God’s response was soft, and full of
love, “Hope is home, Melodee. Her spiritual body is perfect! You
will approve. And the pastor is correct. She is rejoicing with My Son
even as we speak!”
†
On any given day we hear the news of
parents who have lost a child to premature and sudden death. Upon
hearing the news, many people send a quick prayer Heaven-ward,
letting their momentary sadness be known. Yet, until death knocks on
our door with such tragic reality, we cannot and will
not understand how ‘un-right’ it is.
The premature physical death of an
infant, no matter how you try to spin it, isn’t right. It was never
meant to happen, and only the hope of eternal life in Jesus Christ
can make it sufferable.
Prayer
“Father of hope, extend
the touch of Your Holy Spirit to those who have experienced this
grief and heartache first hand. Hold them close and help them heal.
In Jesus’ Name, amen.”
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