We have this hope....

 

 I am traveling home from New Jersey after attending my second funeral in 4 days time.  The first one was for the beloved father of my dear friend who also happens to be my brother in law. It was my first experience of a Catholic service, and it was a beautiful, ceremonial tribute to the life and legacy of a wonderful man.
  The service today was for my husband's uncle. Also a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. The service was simple and emotional as daughter and granddaughter spoke through tears about their great love for this man.
   Both services paved the way for families to come together. Brothers and sisters, cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandchildren.....some who haven't seen each other for years.  Even though life has taken these families in many separate directions, they dropped everything to come together. To be together. Any differences were left at the door and exchanged for fond memories.
  Both services spoke of hope. Hope that family bonds are strong no matter what life throws at them. Hope that our family members have merely stepped out of this world into heaven. Hope that because of the grace of a mighty Savior we have the opportunity to see them again.