Grief is Universal

Grief is universal, we have all experienced the pain. Death is not the end of life but a stepping stone to another. Four years ago today, at 2:33pm our beloved husband, father, papa, and friend departed this world and instantly began his new life in heaven. Making that heart-wrenching call to our children was excruciatingly painful. I tell you this not for sympathy by any means, but as a reminder of the brevity of life. As James 4:14 reminds us of our time on earth is but a vapor, a moment compared to eternity.

At Pat’s funeral I read the words from Jesus where he told his disciples in John 14:1-6, “Do not let your heart be troubled, you believe in God, believe also in me. My father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have not told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going? Thomas said to him, “Lord we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

I am eternally grateful that Pat made that decision early in our marriage to love and serve God. Scripture tells us the Lord knows when we are born how many days we have on this earth, (Psalm 139:16, Job 14:5, Acts 17:26). Pat lived a life of purpose and fulfilled his calling.

While time doesn’t heal all wounds, the way we choose to spend our time can make a difference. I have learned to reorganize my priorities. My heart has softened for broken and hurting people. I say “I love you” more often, because I do! I’m training my brain to notice everyday miracles and count my blessings.

I believe God has a purpose for your pain as well. There is a reason for your struggle and there will be a reward for your faithfulness. So don’t give up! Find strength in God and others around you. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. (Rom. 12:12)

I miss my best friend and leader and if you knew him, I believe you do too.

Here’s the truth: Believe in who you know and where you’re going to go!