A Place of Waiting

Colorado Springs, Colorado

This is the columbarium at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, the Christian community that I've been privilege to serve as pastor for over fifteen years. When I arrived in 1999 there were only two stations. I would guess that others will be added by the time I leave Holy Cross.

When I stand before these stone chambers, I remember the people whose ashes I've helped lay to rest here, and I recall the stories that slumber with these saints. We recently placed the ashes of a charter member of our congregation next to her husband's. The stories she told about this fledgling community have now been left to the memories of her loved ones.

"For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him." 1 Thessalonians 4:14 New International Version

The phrase, "fallen asleep," is one of Paul's favorite phrases for those who have died in Christ. Maybe Paul harkens back to Jesus' words over Jairus' lifeless daughter. Jesus spoke of her as sleeping, a comment that caused the mourners to laugh at him.

The truth is that everyone who dies in Christ will not remain dead. As Jesus has risen so too will the remains of all whom Christ has called to himself.

This columbarium is not the final resting place for these saints, only a place of waiting.

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Text and Photographs ©Copyright 2012-2015 Douglas P. Brauner.  ARR.