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“I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe 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” (Revelation 21:3-4 TNIV).

When I asked if she was in pain, her lips moved only slightly and I bent low to hear the murmured words: “No pain.”

She is a woman whose hair was always beautifully curled, her clothing always chosen with care to be colorful, stylish, yet simple. Her back was straight as she walked with dignity. She read widely with favorite authors as diverse as Charles Colson, F. B Meyer and Alexander McCall Smith. Her sense of humor frequently caught us unaware. Wisdom gained through long experience was quietly shared.

She loved entertaining and to be invited for tea was an occasion to remember. The table held beautiful china and flowers, tiny homemade scones were ready for clotted cream and rich red jam, and the tea—at least two flavors—was hot and poured into delicate cups.

Today her thin white hair spreads straight on the starched hospice pillow. Her garb is a clean but faded hospital gown loosely covering patches, tubes and wires. Her bruised and swollen body lies still on the bed.

It has been over a year since Mary met with our small group on Sunday mornings. A nasty fall broke bones and exacerbated an already severe case of arthritis. Diabetes flared. Ambulances moved her between home and hospitals and care facilities.

During these long grueling months Mary never lost hope. While never denying the reality of her situation, “when”—not “if”—was her mantra. “I’ll have you come to tea when this is over.” “When the pain eases, I’ll be able to read long books again.”

Doctors now say a massive infection has invaded her frail body. She will soon die. But this morning we spoke together of heaven. Her friend has come from California and they talked together of roller skating in Africa as children and how Mary will surely skate again in heaven. We sang hymns together. Mary feebly asked for (and received!) a ”chocolate mocha frappé from Starbucks.”

When I heard the whispered words, “No pain,” I realized that very soon Mary will not only be released from debilitating physical pain, but she will no longer suffer from scarring childhood memories, excruciating family wounds, and all the other tough stuff of life. Soon, very soon—perhaps in the coming hours—her hair will again be her crowning glory, she will be robed exquisitely in white, she will walk regally—and then bow painlessly—before her Savior.

~Father, what a privilege it has been to know Mary. I am only one of the thousands whose lives have been touched and blessed by her presence. Take her soon to yourself, Father.

Questions: Who do you know who has lived long and faithfully for Jesus? How has that person affected your life? Just as we should prepare for all the practical end of life decisions, how can we prepare ourselves spiritually?   What “heavenly promise” is important to you?

About the Author: http://talk.thelife.com/experience/devotionalforwomen/authors/marilyn-ehle/