A Pilgrim Spirit by Roberts Liardon

Roberts Liardon tells us that someone she had known on earth as old and gray-headed approached Marietta, but was now transformed into a strong, vigorous youth. This pilgrim described the power of God’s grace that had transformed him from one who struggled with sin and lived in a frail, mortal body to one who was redeemed from sin and death. He loudly proclaimed the worthiness of God and of Jesus when a group of tiny children joined him, holding hands and raising their voices with him in praise.

The Cross

As this song drew to an end, Marietta saw the dome above her open and a bright light descended, filled with beings even more glorious than those she had seen. Although she wanted to run from this light, her angel spoke to her, revealing that this was the glory of the cross that was descending upon her.

A cross appeared with the words “Patriarchs, Prophets, and Apostles” written upon it. Above the cross appeared the words “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” At the foot of the cross bowed an adoring spirit dressed in white garments. The angel then told Marietta that Jesus had allowed her to be admitted there even though she would soon have to return to earth, bearing a message of God’s love. The angel further revealed that Marietta would have a message for a young man who was still on earth and wandering in darkness.

The angel began to tell Marietta that though she felt sorrow at leaving Heaven, she would carry great riches of truth back to earth. Marietta would be able to tell others that the cross is honored in Heaven, that all humans do indeed have guardian angels who watch constantly for them, and that as Jesus’ return approached, all mankind would begin to be aware of the reality of Heaven.

Roberts Liardon tells us that after leading a hymn of praise that was beyond human comprehension, the spirit reminded Marietta that only through Christ the Redeemer could any person have the hope of Heaven. Marietta once again remembered her sins and doubts, and her spirit was saddened. She cried out that she would give everything to be able to live forever in this place of eternal peace and love.

The spirit encouraged her to be faithful to the truth she had been shown and that she, too, would know the joy of Heaven forever.