Eric Clapton wrote a heart wrenching song about the death of his four-year old son (March 20, 1991). He fell from a 53rd-story window. Clapton took nine months off and when he returned his music had changed. The hardship had made his music softer, more powerful, and more reflective. You have perhaps heard the song he wrote about his son’s death. It is a song of hope:
Would you know my name if I saw you in heaven?
Would it be the same if I saw you in heaven?
I must be strong and carry on,
‘Cause I know I don’t belong here in heaven.
Would you hold my hand if I saw you in heaven?
Would you help me stand if I saw you in heaven?
I’ll find my way through night and day,
‘Cause I know I just can’t stay here in heaven.
Time can bring you down, time can bend your knees.
Time can break your heart, have you begging please, begging please.
Beyond the door there’s peace I’m sure,
And I know there’ll be no more tears in heaven.
Just a week ago we celebrated Holy Week. Jesus had a Passover meal with his disciples. He washed their feet in an act of servanthood. Jesus foretold his betrayal which Judas performed. He predicted Peter’s denial. Jesus told them he was leaving.
But he adds words of hope: Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many rooms. I go to prepare a place for you and I will come again and take you to myself. So that where I am, you may be also. What a beautiful description of heaven from Jesus!
Hardship has a way of getting our attention. I know how pain slows us down. Very few us, after facing a trial, come out the same way we entered in. Jesus understood this and attempted to prepare his disciples for the road ahead. Jesus is preparing you and me for the road ahead.
As with any trip, especially one that will lead to forever, spend time with Jesus this weekend preparing for your journey together with him that is sure to come!
Thanks to Brett Blair for these words.
WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE YOU CAN’T TAKE IT ANYMORE, LOOK TO JESUS, AND TAKE IT A LITTLE MORE!
