John 14:27-29

"I leave you with a gift--peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid. Remember what I told you--I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really love me, you will be very happy for me, for now I can go to the Father, who is greater than I am. I have told you these things before they happen so that when they do, you will believe (in me)."  (Living Bible) 

Reflection by Kenneth L. Samuel

There is always a certain peace to be found in the presence of those we love and cherish. There is a warmth and a satisfaction in a loved one's presence that words cannot adequately express. We love people so much that we determine to keep them with us always, and we assume that if they love us they would never want to depart from us.

We are not comfortable with the love of someone who has to leave us temporally in order to come back to us eternally. Still, perhaps the greatest expression of our love for someone is our willingness to let the person go.

Prayer

Lord, give us the faith to let go of our temporal securities as we reach toward eternal assurance. In the transitions of those who are dearly departed, help us to find abiding love. Amen.

About the Author Kenneth L. Samuel is Pastor of Victory for the World Church, Stone Mountain, Georgia.