Wedding ceremonies shown in movies often feature the couple exchanging romantic vows in which they pledge to love each other forever. Similarly, a visit to a cemetery will reveal gravestones for couples with the caption, "Together Forever".

I first met my wife 73 years ago, and we were ultimately married, exchanging vows 66 years ago. In her latter months, she experienced significant pain. At the end of her time here on earth, my son and daughter helped me to do everything possible to help her and give her anything that she desired. But one week before she drew her final breath, she quietly said to me, "I know I'm going. Won't you come with me?" Her final request was to be together forever, and I couldn't fulfill it.

Not only is our time on earth God's to control, not ours, but Jesus also clearly stated that marriage is only "until death do us part".

Matthew 22:30 – At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven. (NIV)

On the other hand, this Good Friday, consider the sayings of Jesus when He lay dying on the cross, particularly His exchange with the repentant thief:

Luke 23:42-43 – Then he said, "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." (NIV)

Together forever.

We have the solemn promise of Jesus that a relationship with Him is the one connection in this world that cannot be broken by death, but will go on forever. Jesus was willing to die to pay the penalty of death for our sins, so that we could have a right relationship with God. If it was worth that much to Him, it is not something that we should take lightly, but rather value highly and pursue for all that we are worth.

Like me, you also can follow the lead of the repentant thief, ask for Jesus' forgiveness, and be granted the ultimate companionship of being together forever with Him.

Prayer: Dear Father, we thank You that You have made a way for us to be with You forever. We can understand Your love and faithfulness only in a tiny way, but we are grateful that You have given us Jesus to show us the way. Help us to be faithful so that we can be together forever. Amen.

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About the author:

Vincent Walter <vwalter@bell.net>
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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