INSPIRASUNS

We’re wrapping up the visit with my stepmom today, heading to Tampa to visit my dad. He is buried in the Florida National Cemetery there. It’s been a while since we have been there, last December for the Wreath’s Across America Event.

My dad isn’t really there, just his human shell, I know that he is with our Lord and walks pain-free with no more health issues. However, I guess the location of that human shell gives us a place to go to and remember.

I’m thankful for this national cemetery, for all of them across the nation. They are a quiet peaceful resting place for so many. The rows and rows of white headstones, the occasional playing of Taps from a funeral across the way, the silent whisper of the breeze as I kneel down and touch my dad’s headstone, all special gifts.

As I think about the final resting places for those we’ve lost in this world, I’m reminded of Jesus’ words to the criminal on the cross next to Him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise”. I know that my loved ones, mom, dad, aunts and uncles, dear friends, who have left this world, well, they’ve done just that. They have moved to a new life with our Lord. The resting place for their earthly bodies while they should be respected and honored, is not where they are. It gives me peace knowing that they live on in the brightness of Heaven, fully restored and that one day, I will join them in that brightness, also fully restored.

Until that time comes when I see them again, I’ll honor the resting places here on earth of our loved ones. Today I’ll appreciate the peacefulness of the national cemetery and I’ll enjoy the memories of Dad.

Have a good day friends, spend some time today remembering those who have gone before. Take heart, there will be a day when we are reunited, Jesus tells us so.

p.s. Thanks to my friend Beth Argeros for the beautiful sunrise picture from NH, the cover of today’s little blog.

Luke 23:43
And He said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”