I had never met the woman the Pastor was eulogizing, but I was there along with my husband and several friends from our church supporting her parents as they grieved the loss of their daughter. I never knew her, but from the memories shared by her parents, husband, daughter, and brother, I got a clear picture of a life well-lived and loved. Cancer cut her life short, but not her legacy.

The Pastor mentioned the fact that while we are in the midst of the Christmas season now, losing a loved one during this time of seasonal celebration is especially hard for a family. I nodded, remembering how we lost my sweet father-in-law just before Christmas in 2012. The funeral home that was handling the arrangements for my father-in-law had a basket of laminated bookmarks and reading the poem, I wept at the sentiment. I have kept the bookmark in my Bible ever since. I do not know the author of this poem (if my readers know, please share it with me so I can give appropriate credit), but I share it today here on Journey Thoughts. I pray it will comfort many during this season of grief and Yuletide.

May God comfort those who mourn.

My Christmas in Heaven 

I see the countless Christmas trees
around the world below, 
With tiny lights, like Heaven's stars, 
reflecting on the snow.
The sight is so spectacular; 
please wipe away that tear, 
for I am spending Christmas 
with Jesus this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs 
that people hold so dear, 
but the sounds of music can't compare 
with the Christmas choir up here.  
I have no words to tell you,
the joy their voices bring.  
For it's beyond description, 
to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me.  
I see the pain inside your heart, 
but I am not so far away. 
We really aren't apart.
So, be happy for me dear ones,
You know I hold you dear,  
and be glad I'm spending
Christmas with Jesus this year.

I send you each a special gift, 
from my heavenly home above. 
I send you each a memory of
my undying love! 
After all, "Love" is the gift 
more precious than pure gold.  
It was always most important 
in the stories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other, 
as my Father said to do, 
for I can't count the blessings or love
He has for each of you.
So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear.
Remember, I'm spending Christmas with Jesus this year.

-Author Unknown-