In Remembrance

As we drive back from a family gathering on Christmas Eve, we veered off our exit and rounded the exit ramp to find two people standing at a roadside cross. No doubt, they were there remembering their loved one this holiday season. No doubt, they were mourning the loss of their loved one as they braved the cold weather to pay respect. Maybe they were replaying wonderful anecdotes to one another or possibly alone in their mind where that person is still ever-present. But then reality sets in, another holiday without them, another holiday with only their memory.

My heart broke...

So quick we are I am to forget and not take thought for those around me hurting and mourning this time of year. So busy this time of year becomes that we forget all the pain and sadness it imposes on others, while basking in the joy and merriment.

My mind then went to those, like myself, who have lost loved ones, yet have no memorial to stand before, no roadside cross to visit, because those people are still alive, at least in the literal sense.

My heart aches that these loved ones are a phone call away and yet just as far gone. As I stand at their figurative roadside cross, I am reminded of the pain this world has thrust us all into. We are all fighting a battle, whether outwardly or inwardly, and while our pain is different it is all related. It all goes back to the Garden, where the fall of man occurred.

God loves us so much that He promised He wouldn't leave us comfortless. If you are a child of God, you can rest in this promise. No matter how hard the road is or where you're standing on it, God is there with you.

I will remember God's love for me through His Son Jesus Christ, and I will remember those that are hurting around me and pray for them that they can have peace and joy.