Celebration for Allison

The long procession of cars moved slowly from the school auditorium to the little country cemetery. When they arrived there, Evelyn stood between her parents, holding a damp, wadded tissue. She struggled to keep her tears from overflowing again as some final words were spoken."Today we mourn the loss of Allison, our beloved daughter, sister, and friend," said Pastor Drew. Allison's parents and brother huddled closer together beside her grave, and several other people in the group dabbed their eyes. "But in our grief and sadness, we can take comfort knowing that she is in the presence of Jesus," Pastor Drew continued. "Just think of how wonderful it is for her now. The illness that caused her so much suffering is no longer hindering her--her pain and sorrow are gone." For as long as Evelyn could remember, she and Allison had gone to school and church together. They learned about Jesus when they were little and both trusted Him as their Savior. But now Allison was gone, and Evelyn's heart was sad and lonely. The morning sun shone in a clear blue sky, and a breeze scented with pine trees brushed the upturned faces of Allison's mourning classmates. Each carried a brightly colored bottle of bubbles.The minister's quiet words broke into Evelyn's thoughts. "These bubbles are a picture of the freedom Allison's spirit has today. The Bible tells us that the body is laid to rest in the earth, but the spirit of the person who trusts in Jesus goes to be with Him. Allison's spirit is already at home with Jesus. And like all those who belong to Jesus, she is looking forward to the day of resurrection and the new, eternal body she will receive that will be free from sin, sickness, and death. Because of that promise, we have hope knowing we will see her again."The pastor lifted a bubble wand loaded with suds and held it for a moment. "Let's release our bubbles together in celebration of Allison's life and the joy she now has in the presence of Jesus." A moment later, all eyes were raised skyward as a clear, sparkling cloud danced in the autumn breeze."Goodbye, Allison," Evelyn whispered. She smiled through her tears. "I'll see you again someday."-Phyllis I. Klomparens