THE GATHERING

THE GATHERING

READ:
Revelation 7:9-17

The Lamb who is in the midst
of the throne will shepherd [us]
and led [us] to living fountains
of waters.  -Revelation 7:17

During Oswald Chambers' service as a YMCA chaplain in Egypt (1915-1917), he touched the lives of many soldiers who died in World War I.  On November 6, 1916, Chambers wrote in his diary:  "We have a letter from a New Zealand friend telling us that Ted Strack has been killed.  And so Ted Strack has 'gone to be with Jesus.'  That is just how he would have put it....[He] was a rough beauty of nature and of grace, a fearless, loveable little saint.  Thank God for every remembrance of him....So they are gathering one by one."

As we grieve the death of those we love, we cling to Jesus' promise of life beyond the grave.  The book of Revelation records John's vision of a great multitude from every nation, tribe, and language gathered around God's throne in heaven (7:9).  The overarching truth of this passage is a glad, eternal reunion when "the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd [us] and lead [us] to living fountains of waters" (v.17).

The passing of every believer in Christ foreshadows the day when we will join them with the Lord.  In our sadness today, we are hopeful as we see that "they are gathering one by one." -David McCasland

Beyond the sunset, O glad reunion
With our dear loved ones who've gone before;
In that fair homeland we'll know no parting-
Beyond the sunset forevermore. -Brock
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Goodbyes are the law of earth;
reunions are the law of heaven.

INSIGHT
The promise that "God will wipe away every tear from their eyes" (Revelations 7:17) is first made in Isaiah 25:8, and is repeated in Revelation 21:4.  This promise demonstrates God's tenderness as He wipes tears from the faces of His children.

Have a blessed, safe MEMORIAL DAY.
God Our Creator's Love Always
Unity & Peace