We are taught that in heaven there will be no more grief or sorrow, which leads to the speculation that our memories, or our bad memories will be erased. I doubt it. The difficulties, the pain, the struggles, the heartbreaks, in short, the warfare that so characterizes our world and distinguishes it from the rest of creation, is what God uses to create his very great work. It is our trial by fire; the refinement into pure gold. But this refinement is not something we are passive about. Our active obedience through easy times and trials, our living and learning by acts of faith are integral to our transformation. Our minds and hearts are maturing, becoming certain of the meaning and benefit of holiness and love. To lose memory of the trial that formed us would mean the loss of that which was gained at such cost.
How can we remember all things sad and horrible and remain without sorrow? The answer has to do with the quality and perspective of our understanding. Already we can see how discipline builds character and strength. Already we see numerous examples of how God turns despair into jubilation; defeat into victory. Once in heaven we will see all the pains and sorrows but they will be recognized as discipline; they will seem small compared to the great victories they introduced. They will be seen as part of the fabric making up the great victory. There will be no loss of memory, but there will be a profound change of vision.
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