Nemo Resideo: Sharon Will Not Be Left Behind
The following 'Funeral Service Sermon' is posted with family permission. May the Lord give to the family of Sharon Aannerud, and all who mourn, comfort in their grief and a sure confidence in the Lord's loving care.
Text: John 14:1-7
Nemo Resideo: it is an ancient Latin phrase used by soldiers of the Roman Empire. The ancient Greeks of war also echoed Nemo Resideo in their language. Even the elite United States Army Rangers and Marines have Nemo Resideo as a critical part of their mission. But what does this Latin phrase exactly mean? Nemo Resideo is a term that communicates the determination of soldiers to never leave a person behind enemy lines. It is a term that captures the determination and strength to liberate those who have been trapped by an enemy – to come back and rescue them.
Nemo Resideo: it is an ancient Latin phrase used by soldiers of the Roman Empire. The ancient Greeks of war also echoed Nemo Resideo in their language. Even the elite United States Army Rangers and Marines have Nemo Resideo as a critical part of their mission. But what does this Latin phrase exactly mean? Nemo Resideo is a term that communicates the determination of soldiers to never leave a person behind enemy lines. It is a term that captures the determination and strength to liberate those who have been trapped by an enemy – to come back and rescue them.
Today, we too can say Nemo Resideo with boldness and confidence right here at this graveside. Permit me an opportunity to explain. You see, sin wreaks havoc on all of our lives – including Sharon – bringing forth death. As a result, we are here laying Sharon in a grave because the jaws of enemy-death have clamped down upon her. But today – right now – despite the sting of sin, the jaws of death, and the coldness of the grave, we say, Nemo Resideo – no one left behind!
You and I can say this not because we are mighty soldiers but because of what Jesus has promised Sharon in our Gospel reading. Hear it again, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” Did you hear that? Jesus said, “I will come again and will take you to myself.” Jesus has promised Sharon – and you – that you will not be forgotten in the grave. You will not be left behind enemy lines with enemy-death. At the great last day, Sharon will hear a blast to end all blasts, from a mighty trumpet, and she will be up and out of her grave, taken out of the reach of enemy-death, never to die again! Indeed, mark this, the jaws of death cannot contain or hold us for Jesus has promised to come back and take us to Himself.
And when Jesus comes back to take us unto Himself? Well, death will be swallowed by triumphant Life. Death will not have the last word. But in a single act of valor, Christ will come back and take Sharon, you, and me unto Himself vanquishing sin and shattering the jaws of death – forever.
And so, today, amid our grief and tears, we lift our chins and say, “Nemo Resideo” – Christ will not leave Sharon behind. Christ will not forget Sharon – He will not forget you and me, but is coming back to put bodies and souls back together again, and take us to Himself where all things are made anew.
In the name of Jesus. Amen.
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