Dearest Family,
Carmen was my favorite contemporary Christian artist. He ministered to the Word of God through each song, which; left us Awe-Struck. He was indeed the Greatest Christian Showman. I had the pleasure of attending one of his concerts a few years ago. He was as down-to-earth and had a way of connecting with his audience. Years before his death, he wrote a song, The Third Heaven, which I tribute to you, Donna, and the family. I pray the electrifying demonstration stirs your heart and brings everyone comfort.
No parent wants to hear those dreaded words; we lost him. We lost her! They symbolize it is over for their beloved here on earth. Though we realize that death is a part of life, losing a child is beyond comprehension. I did not know Alivia, but those of us who were blessed with the legacy Aunt Claire left behind had to experience something about Jesus.
For those who die in Christ, death is the gateway to a life we always wanted but could never receive while on earth. Once anyone enters this heavenly home and sees His Majestic glory, they are not in a rush to return to their earthly body. And unless God extends their life, I do not think they would want to come back to earth. At Least, I know I would not! That said, Revelations 21 describes this glorious, spectacular dwelling place prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. He will wipe away their tears, and death shall never be any more. Neither shall there be mourning, crying, even pain will not exist because the former things have passed away. (21:1-4, ESV). Who would not want to reign here forever?
Oh, what a majestic place. They are forever in the presence of God singing holy, holy, holy is the Lamb. The story unfolds in Revelations chapter 4. I can imagine our loved ones in Christ, who have gone on before us. Likewise, a vast concourse of souls clothed in their spotless garments of the redeemed. They echo praise and worship to our King of kings.
There, seated at the throne of God, are the four and twenty elders, in radiant white garments and a golden crown on their head. Around the throne are the four and living creatures. Day and night, they never cease saying: “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty Who was and is and is to come!” (Revelation 4:1-11). Never have we heard such heavenly music because no earthly choir could compare to this mellifluous chorus. Can you see them joining in, singing praises to our Savior?
As these living creatures give honor and glory, the twenty-four elders fall before Him, cast their crowns, and worship; Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will, they existed and were created.
In all its grandeur, behold the holy city, Jerusalem, coming out of heaven. It is adorned as a bride for her husband. (21:1-4). This magnificent place leaves everybody speechless. No mansion on earth can withstand its brilliance. It is fifteen hundred miles, height, and width.
The purpose for living had taken on a distinct significance, for there was no need for food, water, or shelter to sustain life. Suffering, pain, and mental agony no longer existed, so they will never shed another tear. Not even the sting of death could touch them. Each one now reigns in complete triumph with Jesus, never to experience any anguish again.
Its radiance is like a rarest jewel, japer, like a crystal-clear diamond. Such luminous colors spark everywhere. Even the walls have twelve gates, each made of a single pearl comprising the names of the apostles of the Lamb of God. The angels guard each one. And the city is pure gold, like clear glass. (Vs. 11-21).
Light did not radiate from the sun, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. He has reserved seating for those written in the Lamb’s book of life. They are absent from the body and present with the Lord. To see Him was to look on compassion, tenderness, and a love they have never experience. Being with Him was more than anything they ever imagined and desired. And when He spoke their name, it made them feel as they were exclusively His and His alone. They now behold the Lily of the Valley, the Bright and Morning Star, Lord of lords and King of kings. Their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. They bow in reverence and sing holy, holy, holy is the Lord. Beloved, all the hosts of heaven welcome them because there is no place like home. (Vs. 22-26).
Scripture tells us, God is for the brokenhearted and those crushed in spirit. (Psalms 34:18). Though this death may not make sense to you, we know Jesus is the Resurrection and life, and anyone who believes in Him, though they die, will live again. (John 11:25). Father, let this bring comfort to the family as You wrap them in Your loving arms. In the days ahead, when the pain seems unbearable, let them experience Your peace that surpasses understanding. In the Matchless Name of Jesus. Amen
I pray this inspirational reading comforts and brings you peace.
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