The Lucarelli family has been experienced a mass of emotions over the past year. It was at this time a year ago that we were praying and fasting about our potential move to DFW. The road from there to here has been a bit bumpy. We've had sad experiences with friends, breaches in some of our colaboring relationships, and we've lost some loved ones along the way. Becky recently said "good-night" to one of her family members, which brought me back to one of my favorite thoughts--living with an urgency with the Gospel. Jesus has truly shown us that He is worth it all over this past year. The Lord sometimes reminds me of the truths of His Word through song, but it is especially true during tumultuous times.
When I was wrestling with the old-man when I first became a believer, it was the song "Refuge" by my co-fighter and friend, Stephen Hinkle that reminded me of my refuge in Jesus until that day when I will cross from this shore to the other.
When my grand-dad died this past Fall, it was Sovereign Grace's "It is not Death to Die," which reminded me of the legacy of a life lived in pursuit of demolishing the American Dream; living through the grace of God for the glory of God.
When we had our misscarriage in February, it was Christy and Nathan Nockel's "Glory Baby" that brought me to tears as I embraced, "My heart and my flesh may fail me, but the Lord is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
When considering friends who've just gotten a bad report at the Dr's office, Becky's uncle who passed away, and countless other saints who are walking through the death of a loved one, this new song has ministered to me today. It reminds me that we do not grieve as those who have no hope, but as those whose hope is in Jesus, the Resurrection. It reminds me that we are strangers and aliens in this world, that this present world is fading and is definitely not our home, but that we have a heavenly residence and citizenship. So for friends who have lost their Dads, Moms, bros and sisters from their faith family this year, be blessed by this song.
I journey forth rejoicing
From this dark vale of tears, To heavenly joy and freedom, From earthly bonds and fears; Where Christ our Lord shall gather All His redeemed again, His kingdom to inherit. Goodnight, goodnight till then!
Why thus so sadly weeping, Beloved ones of my heart? The Lord is good and gracious, Though now He bids us part. Oft have we met in gladness. And we shall meet again, All sorrow left behind us. Goodnight, goodnight till then!
I go to see His glory, Whom we have loved below: I go, the blessed angels, The holy saints to know. Our lovely ones departed, I go to find again, And wait for you to join us. Goodnight, goodnight till then!
I hear the Saviour calling, The joyful hour has come: The angel guards are ready To guide me to our home, Where Christ our Lord shall gather All His redeemed again, His kingdom to inherit. Goodnight, goodnight till then!
