Do you have a loved one who lives far away? Do you have a loved one who went home to be with Jesus? Seems like we’re always looking forward to the day when we’ll reunite with a loved one. Be encouraged, it’s quite plain from scripture that followers of Jesus Christ retain their identities in Heaven.
Here is an example of a hopeful reunion. David said about his son;
“But now that he is dead, why should I go on fasting? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me.” 2 Samuel 12:23 NIV
David knew that he would recognize and see his son in Heaven. The Bible also brings us comfort by telling us that when saints die, they go to people who will know and recognize them.
“Then Abraham breathed his last and died at a good old age, an old man and full of years; and he was gathered to his people.” Genesis 25:8 NIV
“Isaac lived a hundred and eighty years. Then he breathed his last and died and was gathered to his people, old and full of years. And his sons Esau and Jacob buried him.” Genesis 35:28-29 NIV
The Apostle Paul also tells us about the hope of seeing loved ones in Heaven.
“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope 4For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.1 Thessalonians 4 :13-14 NIV
The Holy Spirit told Paul to write this verse in order to reassure the Saints, that one day, they will see and recognize their loved ones who are in Christ. No matter your time of death, everyone who dies in Christ will experience a wonderful reunion with family and friends. In fact, the scene in Heaven is one of constant reunion because people arrive there every minute. The sound of joyful tears and laughter is never ceasing.
While Jesus was dying on the cross, there were two thieves next to him suffering in a similar manner. One of the thieves believed Jesus words and trusted in Him as his Savior. This thief asked of Jesus, “’Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’” Jesus answered him, ‘I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise’” Luke 23:42-43.
When Jesus says, “I tell you the truth.” Jesus wants us to pay careful attention to the truths in His next words. What are those truths? There is an afterlife, it is immediate upon death and we will recognize each other.
Jesus also told the disciples a parable about being wise, and generous, with money, by giving to the poor and the needy.
I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings. Luke 16:9 NIV
This parable has a secondary truth—people will recognize you in Heaven and remember your generosity to them. Even people whom you’ve never met on Earth will come and thank you and invite you into their heavenly home because you gave to them anonymously. Not only will you be known for who you are, but also, for what you did. Jesus is telling us to make generosity part of our identity!
Reflections
Who are you looking forward to recognizing in Heaven? What will people recognize you for?