The Pain of Losing a Pet
Losing a pet can feel like losing a member of the family. Pets bring companionship, comfort, and joy in ways words can hardly describe. When they pass away, our grief is deep and real.
Billy Graham reminded us that such grief is not trivial in God’s sight. Just as Jesus said:
“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.” (Matthew 10:29)
He notices our tears when we mourn the loss of a beloved pet.
Do Animals Have Souls?
The Bible makes a distinction between humans and animals. Humans alone are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:26–27). Yet animals are still precious to Him—crafted by His wisdom and declared “good” in creation (Genesis 1:25).
Psalm 36:6 says:
“You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.”
While the Bible doesn’t clearly state that animals have immortal souls, verses like this remind us that God cares deeply for them.
Judy’s Vision and the Book of Revelation
In his teaching, Billy Graham shared a striking vision from Judy: she saw Jesus returning on a horse.
This mirrors the breathtaking imagery of Revelation 19:11–14:
“I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True… The armies of heaven were following Him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean.”
Two truths stand out here:
Animals are part of heaven’s vision. Christ Himself is pictured on a white horse, and the armies of heaven ride horses as well.
Creation participates in Christ’s glory. The horse becomes a sign of victory, strength, and inclusion in God’s eternal plan.
Judy’s vision doesn’t stand alone—it aligns perfectly with the Word of God.
The Renewal of All Creation
The Bible offers glimpses of creation restored:
“The wolf will live with the lamb… and a little child will lead them.” (Isaiah 11:6)
“Creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.” (Romans 8:21)
Together with Revelation, these passages remind us that God’s plan of redemption is not just about humanity—it’s about all creation being made new.
Will We See Our Pets Again?
Billy Graham admitted Scripture doesn’t give a direct yes-or-no answer. But he reassured us:
Heaven will be full joy. Nothing will be lacking that we need for happiness in Christ’s presence.
If our pets were part of the joy of life here, we can hope God, in His kindness, will not leave them behind.
A Prayer for Those Mourning a Pet
*Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of animals and for the joy they bring to our lives. We especially thank You for the beloved pets who have shared our days and filled our hearts with love. Lord, You see our grief when they pass, and You promise to comfort those who mourn. Help us to trust in Your perfect plan, remembering that creation itself will one day be renewed in glory.
We hold onto the vision of Revelation, where Christ rides forth on a white horse, victorious and faithful. May this picture remind us that You have a place for all creation in Your story of redemption. Until that day, give us peace, heal our hearts, and help us to rest in the hope that nothing good is ever truly lost in You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.*