Memories

Psalm 130 or 116:10-17
Wisdom 3:1-9 or Isaiah 25: 8-91
Thessalonians 4:13 or 1 Corinthians 15:50-58
John 5:24-27

Every year on this day, I take out my photo albums and thumb through pictures of my relatives and friends who have died. I like to tell stories of each person as the pictures prompt my memories. I remember what we did together, what their personalities were, and how they affected my life’s trajectory when they were alive, and how they still affect me while they are asleep in the grave. This ritual is soothing and satisfying to me. It keeps me connected to those I love.

We were created to be in community with each other, in the image of God, the Trinity. When someone dies, it feels like that community has been torn apart. When we cannot see or speak to a person anymore, it seems like we are just stuck in the past when we reminisce. However, I believe when we stop telling the stories and embracing the ways our lives were affected by our friends who have died, we cut off hope for our relationship with them. That is denying the unity we are destined for. For me, telling the stories is keeping the hope for reunion alive. Wisdom 3:2-3 says, “In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be a disaster, and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace.” They are at peace and they are with us. Someday we will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord together!

Written by Haley Hixson

I found lots of great prayers for All Souls at the readings link above. I pasted in my favorite. I pray you have a meaningful day remembering all your loved ones today, too.

Father of all, we pray to thee for those we love, but see no longer: Grant them thy peace; let light perpetual shine upon them; and in thy loving wisdom and almighty power, work in them the good purpose of thy perfect will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.