Me and Dad, circa 1979
It would be virtually impossible to count the ways God brought peace during those few days or how God prepared me in February for what lay ahead in June. I suppose that is why God's peace is called the perfect peace that surpasses all understanding. (Phillipians 4:7, Isaiah 26:3).
The morning of June 4th, all I could do was rest and trust in the Lord. When I awoke, the unexpectant words resounding in my mind and heart were a gentle reminder of the tender heart of God. It is Him alone who gives...
a crown of beauty instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
Isaiah 61
Although I left the house not knowing what the day would hold, God knew. He knew precisely what I would need.
Isabella once thanked God for being "so detailed" in how He made us. It was a sweet prayer admonishing Him for what her eye could see. But God, in his infinite power and majesty, fashions the very details of our lives to bring comfort, accomplish His purposes, and ultimately make Himself known. In His great love for us, He gives far more grace and mercy than we deserve...
God says, "I have loved you with an everlasting love...I have drawn you with lovingkindness." (Jeremiah 31:3)
I don't understand why my father was taken away, or why he had to endure the pain he did.
However, even in deep sadness, I find absolute rest in who God is. Because He will never change. His love endures forever.
