I don’t know if any of us here on earth will ever truly understand God’s great grace.
I am probably covered in prayer now more than any given day. As most of you know, my precious daddy went to heaven two days ago. Through this season, I have seen God’s grace in so many ways.
Psalm 23:4
Yes, though I walk through the [deep, sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort me.
I saw my daddy transition to a place where he had no more control. He couldn’t communicate and he was trapped inside of his body — unable to control the condition of his body or mind. But that also left time for him to speak with God — even if just in his heart. I saw God’s precious grace in the visits of my dad’s family members. His youngest sister had no idea what type of ministry she did by holding his hand and pouring out tears for him. I know God used her and used his niece Sarah to do the needed preparation so that everything was dealt with in his heart. God is so good to us.
Psalm 23:3
He refreshes and restores my life (my self); He leads me in the paths of righteousness [uprightness and right standing with Him—not for my earning it, but] for His name’s sake.
None of us earn it, but we have right standing with Him. Amazing! Ah, He refreshes and restores LIFE. I know death has no sting to our spirits when we love Jesus. Life abounds! LIFE!
I am so grateful for the vision my friend had of my daddy straightening and standing tall between the two angels. I continue to pull my focus back on that picture and away from the visual of my daddy’s last few days on earth. It causes me to rejoice in God’s grace! Another human who did the best he could — yet could have never been good enough on his own — crossed over into eternal life because he believed Jesus died for his sins.
I pray God shows me even more about His grace and love for us. I don’t think I have even scratched the surface in my understanding.
John 14:6
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
Daddy’s funeral is Saturday at 11am. I do appreciate your prayers.
(Photo taken behind our house.)
