Family Reunion

Training for Today: Cross-train for 60 minutes

Devotion: Family Reunion

Remember how great the first hug feels after you’ve been away from a loved one for a while? I certainly do! My husband used to travel overseas for work several times a year, usually for 7-10 days at a time. While he was away, my arms longed to wrap around him in a great big hug. I’d imagine that moment at the airport when our eyes would finally meet and I could run and throw my arms around him. Those reunions were tough to wait for; the anticipation was overwhelming. But, boy did that reuniting moment make all of the frustrations disappear! Can you remember a moment like that?


As I think back to my husband’s travels for work, I see a comparison to Christian loss unfolding. The loved ones we’ve lost are waiting at home, in the perfection of heaven. Their earthly work for God’s kingdom is done, whether it was accomplished physically on this earth or spiritually in our hearts. For the rest of us, we’re still at work, carrying on the commands of the Great Commission to share the good news of the Gospel message.

So let’s carry on with our mission until the day God declares that our work is done. At that moment, we’ll experience a family reunion that puts our earthly reunions to shame. While these earthly moments are very special, they pale in comparison to the family reunion that will be ours through Christ! As it says in 1 Corinthians 15:20-22: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”

In Christ, all will be made alive! Our heavenly reunion is a certainty!

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, today my heart rejoices in the salvation you’ve given me through your Son, because it guarantees me a family reunion beyond my comprehension. Sometimes it’s hard to wait for that reunion. Until you call me home, fill me with a sense of your purpose and the courage to share the Gospel. Amen.