For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed.

1 Corinthians 15:52

My father died when I was barely eleven. On each anniversary of his death, I calculated the years since Jesus took him home. Then somewhere in adulthood, I stopped counting. The growing number brought no comfort to me. Instead, I chose to celebrate, recognizing each day, year, and decade as one closer to our reunion in heaven. What a joyous day that will be when I am reunited with my earthly father in the presence of my heavenly Father.

As we close out another year, let us thank God for his past blessings and for the loved ones who have gone before us. Let us also anticipate with joy, both our time left on earth and the gathering of saints when Jesus returns. After all, we are one year closer.

Gretchen Huesmann
Pensacola, FL

Heavenly Father, strengthen us as we wait for our heavenly reunion. Amen.

Reflect: Instead of counting the years, count your blessings.

Read: 1 Corinthians 15 and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18