Monday, May 21, 2012

Hope

What are our thoughts on a day like today, the second anniversary of our oldest son going to be with the Lion of the Tribe of Judah?

The grief is deep, and painful, and the beautiful memories are mingled with the longing for his smile. So we hold Cassidy a little tighter today, play a little more, give her gifts, in order to remember that she is still here, and He is still good. And He is.

We received a priceless gift last night at King of Kings during worship. As we worshipped the L-rd for His goodness and power the band began to play "How Great Thou Art". We sang this song to Wyatt before bed ever since he was an infant. I suppose in the beginning of motherhood I resorted to something familiar and beautiful, something I used to sing with my own father and mother in church. And then when Wyatt was old enough he would request it. The verses themselves are filled with powerful imagery that speaks to both me and Tom, but it's really the chorus that has taken root deep within:
And so, as we stood there, weeping for the son that is gone, we heard the L-rd speaking to us, individually. Ultimately He said the same thing: "Though I am the Almighty, and I gave everything for the redemption of mankind, I care. I care about you." Thinking of His blood poured out for us is humbling and awe-inspiring. Knowing He cares about the details of our lives -- our pain, our joy, our needs and our hopes -- revives our hearts and and renews our strength.

I will always point to 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 as a cornerstone to my journey. "Now, brothers, we want you to know the truth about those who have died; otherwise, you might become sad the way other people do who have nothing to hope for. For since we believe that Yeshua died and rose again, we also believe that in the same way G-d, through Yeshua, will take with him those who have died."

Do you have Hope?

5 comments:

  1. Thinking of you today, and holding you in my heart. That song is so simple, so true--and the reality of it stands forever. I pray His great love surrounds you and fills you.

    Mia

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  2. I have hope because YOU have hope. I remember singing "How Great Thou Art" at both Ezekiel's and Wyatt's homecoming. Praying for continued healing. Love you all.

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  3. This is so incredibly beautiful, Leah. You truly led me into worship this morning. I knew that G-d is always present for His children when they are suffering because I've experienced it--but I've let my awe in that wear off and haven't leaned on it like I used to. Thank you for the precious picture of you and Tom worshiping the L-rd while weeping--I will never forget it or the fact that He met you there. You've been in my thoughts and prayers...blessings to you all.

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  4. Leah, 
    Thank you for sharing what the L-rd has been speaking to you all in such an important time. My thoughts were on you all that day as I sat holding my new son while recovering in the hospital after a 48 hour battle for the lives of my beautiful wife and son... and for my heart. 

    As we long for the dawning of that day, when death will be no more... Your words that pour out the deep love of G-d encourage my heart.
     May You, Tom and Cass be blessed abundantly for your faithfulness.
    With much love from the three of us,
    Matthew

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  5. Thank you for sharing your hope! -Cristina

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