I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection. Phil 3:11
Last week a phone call surprised me. Our dear Ghanian son, Justice Ekuban Jr. called to inform me he and a team are in the process of making a modern updated movie based on the story of Ruth. It seems a missionary family head to Africa (mom, dad and two sons) where tragedy happens and the men pass. Justice didn’t take the time to tell me the entire plot due to time constraints. Apparently, in some of the opening scenes, they need a picture of an older white gentleman, so he asked me if I could send him a picture of Darryl, pre-stroke.
With a bit of fear and trepidation, I searched my photo files–because they aren’t the most organized area of my computer. I prayed, Lord help me. Help me navigate all these pictures, help me find the right ones and also help me as I experience the emotions all these photos will touch upon. As the hunt went on and I began to re-live a very special season of my life with my dear husband.
He went to be with the Lord almost nine years ago. Looking at those pictures reminded me of how real my life was with him. That may sound odd to those of you who haven’t lost a loved one. I miss him every day, but being reminded through pictures reminded me how very real it actually was. As I focused on these pictures, it overwhelmed me with joy and the blessing of having him in my life for 38 years. I said “you were real. Our life together was real.” And then I thought, I bet you are even more real up in heaven. That made me even happier!
The next day I read I Corinthians 15 which is full of teaching about the resurrection. It was so comforting to know that it is real. Jesus experienced resurrection, and so will we. But the truth is, Christ is risen from the dead, as the firstfruit of a great resurrection harvest of those who have died. I Corinthians 15: 20 The resurrection is our hope. Through it we have the power over sin, death and the grave. Another friend went to be with Jesus this week. He touched many lives and will be missed by his family. Death here on earth still has a sting and pain to it, but when we get to heaven, all our tears will be wiped away. The good news is we have a Comforter who helps us navigate grief, understands it and still gives us hope, which is good news.
Darryl is living his best life yet! Justice liked the pictures I sent him. So hopefully we will get to see this movie after it is released–not sure how or when! But at least Darryl will play a small part because when he was alive, he chose to live his life fully for Jesus. Let’s do the same.
Father, I thank you for the reality of the resurrection. Please help us understand how real it is, and the power it has given us through it. Thank you, dear Lord, for reminding us that those we miss are with you and we will be reunited with them. Help us to be lights in this dark world to share this good news with others who don’t have this hope. In Jesus Name, amen.
Faith Encounters 