Question from a reader:
How will bad relationships on Earth be reconciled in Heaven? I worry because two of my children do not speak to me, and I love them. I have tried to connect but no luck. I’m hoping bad relationships don’t last in Heaven.
Answer from Stephanie Anderson, EPM staff:
I’m so sorry to hear of your heartache as a parent.
It is wonderful news that those who know and love Jesus will experience restored and reconciled relationships in Heaven. Christ promises on the New Earth, “There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:4). If your children know and accept Jesus as their Savior, you can look forward to renewed and loving relationships in His presence. We will be fully righteous and like Jesus—there will be no sin, and therefore no pride, anger, hurt feelings, misunderstandings, disagreements, fights, frustration, cold shoulders. (You might like to look over this list of “Forever Mores” and “No Mores” that Randy wrote about anticipating Heaven.)
Randy writes in his Heaven book, “Many of us treasure our families. But many others have endured a lifetime of brokenheartedness stemming from twisted family relationships. In Heaven neither we nor our family members will cause pain. Our relationships will be harmonious—what we’ve longed for.”
Near the end of his book, Randy says, “The most ordinary moment on the New Earth will be greater than the most perfect moments in this life—those experiences you wanted to bottle or hang on to but couldn’t. It can get better, far better, than this—and it will. Life on the New Earth will be like sitting in front of the fire with family and friends, basking in the warmth, laughing uproariously, dreaming of the adventures to come—and then going out and living those adventures together. With no fear that life will ever end or that tragedy will descend like a dark cloud. With no fear that dreams will be shattered or relationships broken.”
May you experience the peace of Jesus, and may He give you wisdom and grace as you await Heaven’s joy. I’m not certain of the details related to your difficult relationships with your children, but this article from a mom may be helpful, and she provides links to several recommended resources at the end.
