I had planned on doing a series of posts on leadership based on Pat Williams’ book Leadership Excellence. But you know what they say about plans: “The best laid plans of mice and men go down the tubes (my words not the original).” 🙂 I feel a deep “leading” to at least hold off a day and write about something else.
There is a saying we have probably all heard: “Nothing is sure but death and taxes.” I don’t want to get into the theological elements of that statement because that is not my purpose. However, if you read the comments from yesterday’s post, you will notice a comment made by me a good part of the way down. Let me explain:
I was in my office and was writing in my journal when I received a text from a lady whose grandmother had just gone to be with Jesus at 6:05 a.m. My return text was “Good 4 her. Sry 4 u.” I went to the health campus where she had been for 10 years and spent some time with the family. Irene was 94 years old and had been in very failing healthy recently. I received a text last night that she had begun the “death rattle” and it could be any time. I fully expected a call during the night to go to the campus, but it never came. While sad, the family was also rejoicing that Irene was with Jesus. Her last word was “Hallelujah.” (There is a story behind that). I left about an hour and a half later after praying with them.
On my way back to the office, I received another phone call. Only this one was shocking. A cycling friend (who quit cycling with me because I slowed him down… 🙂 ) was killed in an accident on the way to work. “Was I available to go with the police officer to tell her? ” With my insides shaking like a leaf and nervous breaths, I made my way there. It was obvious she already knew. His work had called. Duane was in his early 50s, and while we didn’t ride together over the past couple of years, we were still friends and would speak to each other. Our last time was about 3 weeks ago when he was riding one way and I was going the other way. He turned around and rode a bit with me. We stopped and talked about 10 minutes, then he and his friend took off (leaving me in the dust). Duane was with me when the dog took me down in ’09. He knew the dog was headed for him and I took the punishment instead. 😀 Lynne has lost her soul mate way too soon.
High to low. Mountain to valley. That was the way of my morning. That is also the way of life. None escapes. I would like to ask you to pray for Irene’s family and Duane’s family. It would mean a lot. Thanks.
Wow, kind of a tough day for several families. I know that you might prefer to do many other things, but I am glad that you were in the fray to provide strength and healing and the love of the Savior.
I am glad to have been there also Daniel. Like all professions there are good and bad times.
Praying for the families and for you to have the words from our Father in your heart and on your tongue. This ain’t the Garden of Eden, is it? Praying for you to, Bill.
Thanks Floyd. having the right words is hard sometimes when you don’t know what to say. You are right. It ain’t no Eden.
It is difficult when one who is expected to “go home” soon, does indeed pass on, even if they know the Lord. The moment of separation still tears at the heart. We walked that path a few years ago with my wife’s dad and though, due to circumstances that came to pass in the final weeks of his time here, we’re hopeful, we won’t know for sure if we’ll see him there until we’re finally called home ourselves.
The unexpected passing is so much more difficult though. I mentioned the other day about carrying my best friend’s casket all those many years ago. It’s like getting run over by a freight train. I can only imagine if it was my soul mate …
Irene and Duane, you will be in my prayers.
It is easier to handle the “expected” as to the surprise of the “unexpected.” Thanks for your prayers.
Praying for the family now…
Thanks Jay.
praying – Tough morning!
Thanks Ben. And yes.
Will definitely be praying. Tough morning indeed.
Thanks Matt.
I am sorry for your loss(es). Definitely a tough day! I prayed for the families. Although difficult, it is good that you are in a community where God can use you to comfort the families.
Thanks for your prayers DJ. Praying I can minister in some way.
Life is like that. Praying for this ministry.
I too am very sorry for all of you!My friend passed away 7 months ago at the age of 29 from a massive heart attack. I can relate to your fear,anger,and sadness. I just prayed and I will continue to pray. Please keep me posted.
I’m glad God is with both families and with you. Be refilled. God bless. Praying.