Moments of Impact
My family has seen and is walking in a very hard season. At times it feels as if it is a never-ending dream that keeps playing the same story day in and day out. Maybe you have been there before. Over the last couple of months, we have experienced death like no other. We have had two aunts, an uncle, and most recently, our oldest son to pass away. What do you tell someone or how can you be there for others who are experiencing such tragedy in their lives? Life seems at times to be unfair and we do not know which way to turn for help and relief. I know the feeling all too well. When my son (Chelvin) tragically passed away it seemed like my world was lost and a piece of me died with him. Yet I knew deep down inside that God had a plan for all of this. Knowing that doesn’t take away the sting of grief but I was told by my therapist (yes, my therapist) that we don’t grieve those whom we do not love and that there is a special grace in grief. This really opened my eyes to not just focus on missing my son, but to focus on the great 25 years we had with him and the lasting impact that he had on everyone he came into contact with. For me, this is the blessing. I’m blessed to have witnessed the greatness that Chelvin displayed throughout his life. He was a “if you’re going to do anything, be great at it” type of person. This is something that will last with me for the rest of my life. I would speak for countless others also, but I will allow them to speak for themselves. My prayer since that day has been and will continue to be: “Lord, I do not understand this, yet I trust you with my entire heart.” John, why do you seem to be ok with this? Let me be clear, I never said I was ok with it, I just trust Jesus more than any feeling that I feel. He is the only one who will be able to carry us through these difficult seasons. Psalm 34:18 tells us: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” I love the simple fact that when we feel as though all is lost, Jesus remains “close” to us. This is something that we can be sure of. But how do we know He is close? In the situation when your heart is broken, scripture tells us that He is close. Give him the opportunity to speak to and touch our hurting hearts with a love and peace that only comes from His strength.
Father, I am amazed at your great love for me. You epitomize what it means to be a good good Father and I am glad to be adopted into your family. I pray that our family continues to grow as more people accept your invitation. In Jesus name, Amen!