A dear sister friend died this morning. In hospice for the last several weeks, she finally breathed a last adieu and headed home. A faithful and faith filled
Christian believer, I know the angels heralded her arrival with song and great joy. Someone who stayed the course was victorious! I’d wager the welcome party lasting into the wee hours!
I could hear sadness in the voice of the sister-friend who called to share the news. And though my initial emotion was not sadness, but rather relief that my friend’s suffering had ended, a somber tone seems to be carrying the day. Having to drop off my eldest grandson for his return home after only a two day visit following two years of not seeing him didn’t help. Neither did the story of the mother released from custody of the authorities only to be told she has at least another month’s wait before she can be reunited with her young son from whom she was separated when she came to this country seeking asylum. She waits now in the home of people who offered her hospitality as the government goes through its bureaucratic protocols.
Two of the three sermonic points from yesterday’s pulpit message spring to mind. We must be “Persistent in Prayer” and “Persistent in Faith.” This is especially true during times when circumstances can derail us; shake our belief system; make us lose hope; make us sad. Times like today. So for the balance of time that comprises this 24 hour period, I shall recall the words offered us in Philippians 4: 4-7. I will rejoice in the Lord! I will not be anxious. I will present my prayers to God with thanksgiving. With prayer and faith as my linchpins, I will turn my somberness into joy!
Love. Joy. Peace.