Have you ever noticed that when someone passes from this life the awkwardness that comes out in some people? Many people struggle with what to say or do to comfort those that have just experienced the loss of someone they cared about. Even those of us that believe in John 11:25-26 and other such verses in the Bible the loss of a loved one is still painful. Given that we all deal with that pain in our own ways, it makes it difficult to say the right words that might comfort that person in pain. If you are like me and believe that a piece of you dies when a loved one passes, you will never be the same, and there will most likely always be little reminders that will randomly bring tears to your eyes.
Reflecting back on the loss of my wife there were people that made comments that I believe were meant to be helpful, but in the middle of my pain actually hurt. Why am I writing about this today? Well recently, Melinda’s dad, Bill Pitt, passed away. The words I offer family and friends are “I am sorry for your loss!” and “If you need anything or I can help in any way just let me know”. I have said many times everyone deals with loss in their own way including how long they will morn or how quickly they move on living but not forgetting. For me, if I know the person that has passed had a true relationship with Jesus, I am sad, but at the same time rejoicing. They are no longer in pain and they are now with Jesus. We should be celebrating.
Bill is one of those people I know is in Heaven. If you have doubts, here is his testimony from years ago. Do not doubt where he is!
There will be a Celebration of Life for Bill PITT this Saturday, September 11th at 11:00 am at First Baptist Church Groesbeck located at 306 N Ellis St, Groesbeck TX, 76642. If you would like to donate in his honor please make donations to the First Baptist Church Groesbeck with instructions for it to be used for Children’s ministries including sending kids to summer camps.
What hurts my heart daily are those I have doubts about. I was at a wedding when I heard the news of Bill’s passing. I received many condolences and had several discussions about salvation which got me thinking about several family members and friends that claim to be Christians. Many of those, if they were to die today I think I would be crushed. In Matthew 7:16 we are told we will know them by their fruits. Sadly, I do not see fruits in many and fear that may mean they are Hell bound and not Heaven bound upon death. I hear one yelling at me right now; “Who do you think you are? Only God knows?” I agree only God knows for sure, and my views are based on my experience of years of calling myself a Christian when I now know I was not saved. The Holy Spirit changed me from the inside. I know I am still a sinner and still do things that might make others question my salvation as well, but I know without a doubt that I will one day be in Heaven thanks to the GRACE of Jesus. We do not work to be saved, we work because Jesus saved us and we want to help in every way we can. I guess this is just me begging anyone that reads this to truly think about their relationship with Jesus and ask themselves… “Am I living for Jesus, or Am I living in this world?”
My heart aches for those that have died most likely flat-out rejected Jesus and are now in Hell. Stephen Hawking comes to mind. Isn’t that the irony of it all; God gives us the choice? Joshua 24:15 comes to mind, but there are other verses throughout the Bible about our right to choose Heaven or Hell. I believe Hawking made his choice very clear and I ache with the Holy Spirit knowing he and others like him are suffering because of that choice. I pray that if you are reading this that you know you still have time to choose Heaven. It is not too late. If you are not sure how to put your trust in Jesus and take the gift he freely offers please reach out. I would love to tell you about what Jesus has done for me and what he can do for you.
Dear Heavenly Father,
I never seem to have the words to comfort someone that is suffering from the loss of a loved one. I pray that you will give them comfort in their time of pain as you have me. I ask that you open my eyes to the opportunities to tell others about you as you place them before me. I ask that you give Melinda and Bill a big hug and let them know that those of us that know you will see them again one day soon.
Thank you for your GRACE.
