In April, l999 my father passed away and then in January of 2008 my mother passed.  When you are a child, it seems as though everything will remain the same.  However, years go by and one by one those loved ones and familiar faces are gone.  Aunts, uncles, cousins, parents, possibly children and friends move from this life to the next.
While visiting my sister last weekend, memories came flooding in and tears began to flow.  Seeing familiar places, sights and smells made me miss those loved ones terribly.
Perhaps you too have had great losses in your life.  I know that when these feelings overwhelm me, I have to remind myself of what God’s Word says to me.  Such as, “we do not sorrow as those who have no hope”. (1st Thes. 4:13-14)  Also Jesus told us that He sent the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, to be with us.  (John chapters 14, 15, 16)  He has promised to never leave us or forsake us. I know that I will see my loved ones again someday.  In the meantime, I will enjoy those precious memories.
Let me encourage you to embrace your family, walk in forgiveness, and enjoy times of fellowship with family and friends.  Years pass by all too quickly.
God also provides us a family called, the Church, the Body of Christ.  If we belong to Him, we have a family!!  Your relationships with your family and/or God’s family will sustain you in the difficult times of life.
God bless you and keep you in each and every circumstance!!
Linda Hardwick