Jason Carraway
We want to express our deepest sympathy for your loss of Jay on April 11,2009. Losing a dear one is certainly one of the hardest things we will ever experience. No matter if it is sudden or expected, we are never quite prepared for it. My wife and I are so sorry for your loss.
In my sorrow of losing dear family members, I have found much comfort in how the Bible shows that God did not originally intend for humans to ever die at all. I wish no one had to experience death, especially ones so close to my heart that I know loved their life here on earth. I wish they could have experienced what God had originally provided the first human couple… He created them and placed them in an earthly paradise to live forever. However as we know, they sinned and through their sin death entered into the world. At times of sorrow, I have found it consoling to read the promises God has made to fulfill his original purpose for the earth and to restore life to all that have died.
I enjoy reading the promise, “Your dead ones will live… They will rise up.” (Isaiah 26:19) Jesus Christ himself said: “Do not marvel at this, because the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out.” (John 5:28,29) The Scriptures say, “The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside forever upon it.” (Psalms 37:29) Isn’t this a wonderful promise? It brings me much encouragement to know that my loved ones will be able to live here on earth where they once enjoyed life so much. There are many Scriptures that assure us of this same promise and give confidence that all of these things will take place under the best of conditions. And at that time, death also will be no more for God promises, “As the last enemy, death is to be brought to nothing.” (1 Corinthians 15:26) How happy they will be that they will never have to face death again! I look forward to the fulfillment of a time when, “[God] will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)
I hope that these Scriptures can bring you comfort as they did us. At times our grief was great, even with the hope of the resurrection. As you may already be doing, be encouraged to draw close to God in prayer, as the Bible promises that “he himself will sustain you.” (Psalms 55:22) There are many more Scriptures that reassure God’s promise to resurrect the dead and restore earth to a paradise but I did not want to make this letter too long. Please feel free to stay in touch.
Deepest Sympathy,
Jason and Karen Carraway