John 11:35-36

“Jesus wept. Then the Jews said, “See how He loved him!”

I’ve been struggling to find the right kind of “devotional” to post today. I learned when I first woke up this morning that a dear pastor, mentor and friend has passed away. He was the kind of man of God that literally changed the lives of thousands of people through his ministry. He made a great impact on my life over the last 15 years and I am deeply grieving his loss this morning.

The Lord gently reminded me just moments ago that He understands my grief. When His friend Lazarus died, He also wept. Jesus wept in a way that all those around Him could understand His love for Lazarus. So, I guess what He’s saying to me this morning is that it’s okay to weep and be sad over a dear loved one’s loss. And sometimes, you don’t realize how much a person has impacted your life or how much you loved them until they are gone. Grief, though, tells the story.

Of course, we believers in Jesus don’t mourn as those who have no hope. My dear friend and pastor is most certainly dancing on the streets of gold today, hand in hand with Jesus. No more pain, no more suffering, with a perfectly-working body.

Those of us who knew him, loved him and respected him live better lives because of his words, his actions and his unwavering love and support. He drew all of us closer to Jesus.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

*This post is dedicated to Pastor Henry Taliercio and all those who loved him.