When a Child Enters Heaven

Two days before his sixth birthday, a little boy crossed that thin veil and entered into the presence of God. It was unexpected. His brief years here held some developmental challenges which he met with courage. He played and learned, progressing nicely and making his family proud. He communicated with them in his own creative way. But in one instant, the lives of those who loved him were permanently altered.

Plans for an upcoming birthday celebration had to be set aside while final arrangements for his resting place were made. Thanksgiving Day would now be accompanied by sadness. A little boy’s excitement over Christmas lights and decorations will not be part of this December’s festivities. But his family will continue to be thankful for blessings God bestowed on each of them through one so young.

In the wake of such tragedy, emotions are raw and tender. Loving friends and family reach out with warmth and caring, offering condolences with hugs, food and shared tears. In their humanity, the family will try to make sense of their loss and Heaven’s gain.

Though his appointed years on Earth were few in number, the purpose that God had ordained for him was completely fulfilled. From a human perspective, it may seem that he was taken too soon. But the Lord sees the beginning from the end. He knew it was the perfect time to bring him Home.

The words of this poem are poignant. (Regretfully, I am unable to credit the unnamed author.)

CROSSING OVER
Oh, please don’t feel guilty / It was just my time to go. / I see you are still feeling sad, / And the tears just seem to flow.
We all come to earth for our lifetime, / And for some it’s not many years / I don’t want you to keep crying / You are shedding so many tears.
I haven’t really left you / Even though it may seem so. / I have just gone to my heavenly home, / And I’m closer to you than you know.
Just believe that when you say my name, / I’m standing next to you, / I know you long to see me, / But there’s nothing I can do.
But I’ll still send you messages / And hope you understand, / That when your time comes to “cross over,” / I’ll be there to take your hand.

How does anyone get through this? Each in their own way. Pray. Take nourishment. Rest. “My soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him.” (Psalm 62:1b / NIV) When the time comes, place one foot in front of the other to do only what needs to be done. All other things can wait.

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.’ ” (John 11:25-26 / NIV)