As a nation, we are mourning the loss of a hero and a statesman. John McCain served his country honorably during the Vietnam war. I remember when he came home after 5 years in a prisoner-of-war camp. He was physically and mentally broken after having endured more misery than most of us can imagine.
In true form for this time and place in our countries mindset, there has been controversy upon his passing. What a sad commentary on the state of our union when division and hate surround everything that happens, A man who truly loved this nation was not allowed to die with peace and dignity. His death had to be turned into a political football to further someone’s agenda.
While I didn’t agree with everything John did while in Washington, I always had the upmost respect for him. He was unafraid to speak his mind and put his principles and values ahead of his political party. He wasn’t perfect, but who of us are?
My heart goes out to his family at this time. No matter what you thought of the man, his family is experiencing a profound loss. Most of us have felt the grief and pain from the loss of a loved one. Sadness and grief are a universal condition, and although most people don’t like to think about it, physical death comes for all of us eventually. There is no right or wrong way to mourn, no set time limit and for each of us, it is a personal journey.
When I lost my husband of 35 years, my life changed in so many ways. I still experience those moments of pain and grief even though he has been gone 17 years. I also have the knowledge that one day I will see him again. I have found great comfort in the words and promises found in the bible.
Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain for the old order of things has passed away.”
Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those that are crushed in spirit.”
Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
John 11:35 “I am the resurrection and the life, though he may die, yet he shall live.”
John 5:24 “Truly I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes in him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgement, but has passed from death to life.”
Although we miss our loved ones when they are gone, I am always comforted by God’s promises. I remember the words of a gospel song,
This world is not my home, I am just a passing through,
My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue,
The angels beckon me from heaven’s open door,
And I can’t feel at home in this world anymore.
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