My Sister

At the time of writing , my sister died this week . I’m very sad ; I was not present . However , she was surrounded by children who loved her . The pastor called to express his sympathy , and I appreciated his call . He quoted some Bible texts about the blessing of the resurrection . That should have given me peace ; it didn’t . I felt surrounded by a heavy cloud , as I explained that I was afraid those texts did not apply in this situation .

We grew up in a Christian home and were raised by godly parents who daily prayed for both daughters , committing them to God at a very young age . I’m sure they claimed Bible promises about “ saving children ” before they died . I also prayed regularly for my sister and tried to reach out with spiritual books and suggestions , but each time I felt that she shut me out . My sadness increased . How can I have a happy thought about the future in heaven without my sister ?

An opportune story came up in my Bible reading this week — the story of Samuel , who followed God’s instructions in choosing the right person to take King Saul’s place . As Samuel was led to Jesse’s sons , he was impressed with the oldest one . However , the Lord told him , “ God sees not as man sees , for man looks at the outward appearance , but the LORD looks at the heart ” ( 1 Samuel 16:7 , NASB ) . I had to acknowledge , gratefully , that all I saw was the outward appearance . I’m so glad God knew my sister’s heart ! I’m too quick to judge by externals. How thankful I am that God knows us inside and outside, from the beginning of life to the end , and His judgments are always fair and loving . My time of influence is over with my sister . At this point , I must choose to trust God’s judgment , and I do .

I know that God is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance ” ( 2 Peter 3:9 , NKJV ) . My dad used to say that God would save all who are safe to save . He knows those who love Him and would be happy in heaven. That’s who He wants there .

I’m confident God knows best ! He gave me this promise : “ Fear thou not ; for I am with thee : be not dismayed ; for I am thy God : I will strengthen thee ; yea , I will help thee ; yea , I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness ” ( Isaiah 41:10, KJV ) . And what’s better than that?

Roxy Hoehn