The Lord told Moses, “Aaron will be gathered to his people, He will not enter the land I give the Israelites…” Numbers 20, portrays the story of the death of Aaron. It seems like such a sad and harsh treatment God gave his high priest. Aaron, his son Eleazar, and Moses were told to go up Mt. Hor where Aaron would die, and the priestly garments would be placed on his son.
We are told to “take off the old and put on the new” in Ephesians 4. It says to put off your old self, and put on the new self which was created to be like God in true righteousness. This reminds me of what Aaron was doing in the book of Numbers. He gave his earthly robes, and exchanged them with heavenly ones.
There were blessings within the painful time. The three men would not face death alone, they were sent together. Aaron was allowed to see his son carry on the legacy of the priesthood. He was not permitted to enter the physical land of promise, but he was gaining the much bigger reward of eternal life in heaven.
Death cannot have the final say in the life of a believer. He knew his earthly life was at the end, but this mountain top experience was his new beginning. Heaven was worth much more than any life in a physical land. His body would return to dust, but his soul was going to his Heavenly Father. There is no greater comfort for those who are left behind, than to know where their loved one is going. They are walking towards their new beginning, into the arms of their faithful Savior Jesus Christ, and more beauty than we can comprehend. We may grieve when a loved one dies, but we do not have to grieve “like” those who have no hope. (1 Thes. 4:13) We live with hope and promise. Death does not win, because Jesus had the final word, as his life, death and resurrection secure our salvation.
March has some bittersweet reminders for me. It was three years ago tomorrow, when Cliff’s Aunt and our good friend, Marianne died. How Marianne loved to sing, and her smile lit up a room. She was so sensitive, friendly and caring.
On March 16, it will be 46 years since my dear mom also walked through the pearly gates. I’m sure she is enjoying the streets of gold and singing to her Heavenly Father. My mom also sang, played guitar, stand up bass, accordion, piano and violin.
My mind goes to beautiful pictures in the book of Revelation. In chapter 5 it tells about twenty-four elders who fall face down before the Lamb of God in heaven. They are each holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God’s people. It’s so amazing to think that God holds dear every prayer I have ever prayed. In Revelation 7, it goes on to say that he will wipe every tear from our eyes. Ahhh…no more tears, death, sickness or pain. We will be able to join all those loved ones who have gone before in His presence. What a glorious day!
I can’t seem to reply on your blog site. I forgot my pw and don’t have the patience to recreate! I really liked this one! Nice work!
Sent from my iPhone
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Bev, I’m so sorry I didn’t see this reply until now and I think that it worked just fine. Not sure if you wanted it published this way. I can take it off if you prefer…but thank you for the compliment.
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Very much so Kelly! And the cloud of witnesses is a really a neat thing to think about! I’m sorry you had the pain of losing a friend though it’s comfort to know you’ll see them again. Thanks!
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Sure enjoy your writing’ dear cousin! I was happy to see your parents wedding picture – so sweet!
I remember vividly that certain March 16 when your family notified us of your mother’s passing and that she already had a birthday card signed and ready to mail to my sister Helen whose birthday was March 16. Your mother was so giving and caring. Love you! ❤️
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Oh Karen, thank you for sharing that tidbit of a story! I didn’t know that. It sounds exactly like her though and it’s touching to know. Thanks, as it honors my mom and also helps us to remember your dear sister Helen who has also gone on before us. So that is one of those “dates” for you too…
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Such a comfort to know this isn’t it? A close friend when home to be with the Lord in January. And death did not have the final say! I know she has joined that cloud of witnesses that have went before us and are enouraging us as we continue to run the race!
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“Death Doesn’t Have The Final Say,” Praise God for that. As long as the person is a believer there is no need to fear.
Nice picture of your parents wedding. You look like your mom.
Blessings,
Wanda S.
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Thank you Wanda! It sure is a compliment that you say I look like my mom! I appreciate your support with likes, tweets, shares, etc. We know the WORD needs to get out!
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Beautifully written and so very true Dear Sis!
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Thank you Eloise! We know it’s true!
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“All that is not eternal is eternally out of date.” C.S. Lewis
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Duane, now that’s really something to chew on! Thank you! Eternal things are the only things that matter.
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