Life Goes On--the Journey Continues

Originally, I began writing this blog to chronicle the journey Rich and I were on as he battled cancer. Quickly, though, I saw how difficult it was to do that. When there was hope and expectation, when there were victories, writing was easy. A pattern began to emerge, though, of progress and setbacks; of hope and then despair. What was the use of writing positively, knowing that the next day might bring contradictory circumstances. I only wanted to emphasize the positive. So I stopped. I expected a time would come when the victory would be final and then I could record the ups and downs with triumph. Just now, as I wrote these words a verse came to mind: "Death is swallowed up in victory." 1 Corinthians 15:54 Victory as I foresaw it did not come, but even in death there is victory and triumph, the Word of God tells us. And there's more: "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."

Yes, Rich left his body, his body died and he's gone to be with the Lord. I've always struggled with the negative aspects of death--thinking that it is defeat and failure. Now I see that it isn't! For one who believes in redemption through the blood of Jesus, the forgiveness of sins and the provision of an eternal home with the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, there is no sting in death, only victory! The sting of death is sin; sin is dealt with through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus. Victory and triumph and rejoicing are appropriate responses! Jesus said: "I am the resurrection and the life,he who believes in me, though he may die, he shall live." HALLELUJAH!