It's John 3:16 day!
"For God so loved the World that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever would believe in Him should not perish but have eternal life." AMEN!
3 years ago today I sat with my father-in-law, watching the sun rise after a night of heavy rain, as he went home to be with Jesus. Wow. What a wonderful picture of hope and healing. God does all things well, and that morning was especially beautiful. The cold rain had left tiny icicles on the leaves of trees and blades of grass, on windowsills and posts. These were lit with stunning colors from the incredible sunrise AND rainbow the Lord chose to send to give us peace and, joy. Yes, joy. We knew he was home.
I miss my father-in-law. He was a man of many gifts. He was a man of great intelligence, which belied his level of schooling. He was a man of many jokes, some off-color but always meant with humor, not hate. He was a strong man, full of honor and a sense of courtliness. He treated women with respect. He loved a good debate, which he seldom lost (that he admitted to, anyway :D) He had a strong sense of country and family. He seldom said "I love you" but always showed you in every way that he did, in fact, love you very much.
I am glad to say that this verse was one he believed in very strongly. I know that I will see him one day in glory, because he lived out his belief. He wasn't a typical, outward Christian, but one that lived each day knowing where his future lay. Even through the cancer, the pain, the setbacks, he knew where he was headed.
I hope you have this hope of heaven, and healing. If not, please consider this verse. It was said, for YOU. So you, too, would have joy.