308 – We Cling to Someday

#faithbites #faithjourney someday

Today at church we celebrated All Saint’s Day. Before today, I didn’t realize what it was. I knew it was always November 1st and I thought it was about the Saints. Today I realized, at least in the Lutheran belief, that all of us are saints. During service, we remembered each and every person who passed during the year. I counted 37 names people. 37 lives ended but a new life beginning with Jesus.

Christianity is all about that someday. The day when we meet Christ; when all of our pain, tears, and suffering are gone. On the day when we rejoin our extended family in him. Our brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, friends, and others who have passed before us will be there greeting us.. There will be no death, no tears, no sorrow, just love, and peace.

We cling to that someday, when our faith, our perseverance, and fortitude will be realized. That we will see our God, our Savior, and our loved ones. I don’t know about you, but the hope of that Someday makes my soul sing.

While that someday isn’t here yet, we do know who God blesses in preparation for that day.

Scripture

“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
    for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
    for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
    for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
    for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
    for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
    for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. – Matthew 5:3-10

Reflection

The verses above are from the Sermon on the Mount. These are specifically called the Beatitudes, meaning “supreme blessedness.” Why would I use these in a day celebrating and remembering those who have gone on before us? Maybe because it was in the sermon this morning? 🙂 While that is true, when we think about those who have reached their someday, they are blessed. We want to be with Christ because we experience many of the experiences on a daily basis. Have you been a peacemaker or persecuted? Maybe you are hungry or merciful. These are all blessings in his word.

Those who are no longer with us are like us. They have had these life experiences. It also gives us a chance to look at the world around us. If God blesses the people who go through these experiences or act in a certain way, shouldn’t we?

Shouldn’t we bless those who are hungry and thirsty by giving them food and drink? Shouldn’t we refrain from persecuting others?

While I don’t know all the answers, I do know that God is here and he is blessing us. He lets us know how we are blessed in order to have faith in him, all the while knowing that our Someday will come.

Charge

Are you remembering someone who has passed? Take time to know that they are waiting for you at the great family reunion when Someday comes. Are you feeling let down by the Lord or not welcome in his family? Take a moment to realize that this is not true. You are always welcome in his family. He forgives all your actions. Know he loves you.

Lord, help me to remember those who I have lost in the past year. Help me empathize with others who have losses much greater than mine. Let mek now their ear, their friend, and bring them closer to you. Remind us all that Someday will be here soon.