“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) - Daily Bible Reflections April 18,2014

GOOD FRIDAY

 

LOVE TRIUMPHS

 

“It is finished!” – John 19:30

       What started as a mouth sore when they first entered the hospital in November 2012 turned out to be the start of a two-month fight against lupus. Ardy and Ting Roberto fought bravely together with their deep faith, prayers and support from family and friends.

       Throughout their suffering, Ardy praised God in the storm. He was in his Gethsemane, in tears, while his wife spat blood on the day they were supposed to return home.

       But it was a different home the Lord called Ting to. In the last few minutes of her life, Ardy lay beside his wife in the hospital bed, showered her with kisses and took her into his arms, assuring her of his love, “You don’t deserve this body, Ting. When you see Jesus’ hand, take it. Don’t let it go.”

       She died in her husband’s arms as he gave her back to her Eternal Groom. “She is free,” Ardy said in tears.

       Ting’s pain ended in victory. For she returned to the Lover of her soul, to the one who suffered and died for her first so that she may live forever. In the end, God’s love conquered pain and sin and death. It is finished.

       We are free. Thanks be to God. Marjorie Ann Duterte (marjorie.travels@gmail.com)

 

Reflection: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

 

You died, Jesus, but the source of life flowed out for souls and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. Jesus, King of Mercy, I trust in You.