Holes and Hope

Psalms 116:15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.

Some holes can be fixed; like the little ones in the baby hat I’ve knit. (I have no idea how they got there, but I’ll stitch them closed.)

Some holes seem irreparable. My sweet friend Malinda passed away last Thursday and she has left a huge hole in my heart and many, many others... Her passing was very, very, unexpected. Losing someone is never easy, but when it comes without warning the pain feels deeper. She left behind her husband Dave, son Dylan and daughter Jordan, friends and neighbors who all are wondering what her husband expressed; “How do I go on and do life without her?” 

(4th of July Parade)

The last four days have been filled with tears, quiet talks, memories shared, food delivered and hugs. We are gearing up for her Celebration of Life this Friday and know that she’ll be pleased with the care and thought that have gone into each detail of the service. Please join me in prayer for her family and also for the individuals who will be sharing their words and musical talent at the service.

In the midst of all the sadness, a celebration in our church community has happened yesterday! A baby has been born to our beloved Pastors. It took years for little Michael Reed to be conceived and then he decided to create a bit more drama by staying in his Mama’s tummy an extra two weeks. I think his birthdate was God's perfect timing.  His arrival reminds us of God’s love and promises kept and hope for the future.

"A baby is God's opinion that the world should go on." (Carl Sandburg)

Hundreds of years ago God’s people were wondering and waiting and then...Jesus came as a little baby. I’m remembering 22 years ago when my Daddy passed away. In the middle of my grief I discovered I was expecting a surprise 4th child. Babies give us hope that even though lives end, life goes on and joy can return.

(Malinda on her birthday holding a "Young Lives" baby. She would have adored her future grandchildren.)

Some holes are so huge and so painful, that the only one who can do the repair work is Jesus. It is going to be a long process... 

“Is any pleasure on earth as great as a circle of Christian friends by a good fire?” (C.S. Lewis)

Grieving, yet still In His Grip,

Jane