“When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.” (Psalm 27:10)
There is a “when” that we dread, a time we knew had to come, but we hated to even think about. Some things we fear, thankfully never happen; but others are appointed for us and those we love. “… It is appointed unto men once to die” (Heb. 9:27).
Memories are good, but they are no replacement for the actual presence and experience of a loved one in our life. The departing of those dear to us always leaves a gaping hole. Oh how we wish they could have been “there” with us to see this wonderful event; or be that source of comfort and strength to us in the troubles of the day.
The taking away of a cherished loved one, especially when we weren’t ready to let go, can send us reeling. We reach for them but they are no longer there. One day, others will reach for us and we will be gone as well. The issue is where will we be? If the Lord was our Guide in life, He will guide us safely to heaven’s shores. “For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death.” (Psalm 48:14) “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.” (Psalm 23:6)
If the Lord is our Shepherd, we needn’t fear death’s approach. “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4) There is no greater comfort than that of God’s presence; no greater words of comfort than: “I am with you.”
Become vitally dependent on God today. There are so many times in our life when we look around us, and can’t find from human beings the refuge our soul wants. God would be our eternal Refuge and Strength; our very present help in trouble. He would walk through life with us, sharing our every joy and sorrow.
When those you have loved, needed, and depended upon the most are not there for you, then – He will be. Don’t wait for then, let Him take you up in His arms now. “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms” (Deuteronomy 33:27)