The empty chair

Somehow, I knew that this day would come. I should have been mentally prepared for this. But my heart refuses to do so. It is still hard and painful. It is still unimaginable. Things will never be the same again… I used to hear your voice every day through live streams. I was always looking forward to seeing your smile. Your affectionate smile. I always wanted to be part of your activities and advocacies. I felt the happiest when I was listening to you. I was proud whenever I see how zealous you were in propagating the truth. I was just so amazed knowing a fearless man was willing to spend his life fulfilling his duties to God. I must admit that at times, I was being irresponsible and careless. I was hardheaded. There were moments that I was not being helpful but a burden to you. I failed miserably in obeying your counsel and advice. Those were my regrets. And now, this reality is suffocating. The unbearable truth is sickening and unacceptable. I felt my breath just got out of my chest when I saw that empty chair. Everything feels surreal. But as soon as I remembered His words, His teachings through you, I am strengthened again. Once more, I am comforted. Knowing you have reached your finish line, I am relieved. And I am more thankful now that I have realized you are resting under His care, for the meantime. I am hopeful with the possibility that I will be seeing you again. For now, I must win the battle. I must reach the goal as well if I want to see your smile again. Not in this season but in the 1,000-year reign of the Lord Jesus Christ. It may be hard for now. But with hope, faith, and love that the Almighty Father has given to us, the emptiness in our hearts caused by an empty chair, will be overflowed with gladness once again as we will be reunited in the future. See you soon, Ingkong… ❤️