Inspired by . . . ashes and bone

Inspired by . . . ashes and bone

There were only two Souls walking around the cemetery that day. My Dreamer and me.

Far from being a place of macabre, for me, the cemetery is a place of peace and tranquility. Of shelter and protection.

There is nothing sacred in ashes and bone. Nothing divine or holy resides in this place. Yet, what remains should be kept safe and free from defilement.

The part of us that is sacred, that part that has been set apart and sanctified, does not linger once it is released from the bounds of this earthly body. It immediately seeks its true home, complete in Christ. That which we knew in part has finally become whole.

For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. (1Co 13:12)

Some have a different view. They come and speak to the stones. They leave letters and trinkets. Little gifts of remembrance meant to comfort. 

Only the living are comforted. The dead remain.

We came searching for names. Sketching out the half-drawn branches on the family tree. As we walked, we remembered. And our memories brought the dead to life and clothed them in story. Each name fleshed out in a place and time. A blessing. A tragedy. A life well-lived.

Our lives may be just a vapor but they have a purpose. When we live for Christ we leave His divine imprint on every life we touch.

The seeds of faith are planted, or watered, or fertilized.

I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. (1Co 3:6)

Remembering is like stirring the potpourri.  Our words release the scent of blessing again to another generation.

I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. (2Ti 1:5)

We honor the dead by telling their stories and in the telling, we bestow a blessing on those who will listen.

Who has left a divine imprint on your life?

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:
#TellHisStory, Faith On Fire, Grace & Truth,
Inspire Me Monday, #HeartEncouragement,
Thoughtful Thursdays, #w2wwordfilledwednesday,
Sitting Among Friends, #Glimpsesofhisbeauty
Counting My Blessings, Grace Moments,
#DanceWithJesus; Imparting Grace