Sometimes death comes like a bomb, exploding into one’s life and shaking the foundations of who we are, maybe even our faith.
Sometimes it comes like a tug-of-war, wrenched from our grasp despite the strength of our arms and hearts.
And sometimes, it comes like a whisper – drawn from us in a quiet way, quivering our spirits like a full glass of water. Part of us spills out with whys and wonders, but at the bottom of it all there is a peace.
A peace that passes understanding.
Yes, there is weeping, hurt, a deep and aching sadness – but in the end, a knowledge- the One who held that life is STILL holding that life, only in a different place and different way.
I write this note today to celebrate the life of my grandmother who met Jesus yesterday evening.
Here is the dedication to the story I’ve been writing about her life for the past 15 years:
To my Granny Spencer,
whose memories inspired this story and whose life inspired me.
A few weeks ago, I wrote a song for her using her ‘life’ verse; the verse she loved to meditate on,
Romans 8:28, and I had the opportunity to sing it to her over the phone. She liked it 🙂
The Author’s Song
When the storms of trouble threaten dreams
or when pain blinds eyes and soul
and when sorrows break our dreams
you will whisper peace be still
You will whisper peace be still
_________
When the lonely nights spread into days
or tomorrow’s hope light fades
when the grip of death is breaths away
You will hold your child safe
You will hold your child safe
For each moment is like paint within your hands to make a portrait
Where the image likens more and more to you
As you work these moments to our good, as you work these moments to our good.
_______
When the weeping lasts all through the night
and the joy comes with the sun
When a prayer awakes hearts to flight
You will sing your songs or us
You will sing your songs or us
Make a picture of the good and bad as we’re molded more like you
Keep our wandering hearts steadfast and true
As you call us to your purposes
As you call us to your purposes
—–
When my final day comes to a close
and my story has been told
May your fingerprints be left behind
as you walk this child home
as you walk this child home
-For a life well-lived to glorify God
What a Blessing she was and continues to be as she shines down on us with an everlasting smile and an everlasting Twinkle in her beautiful eyes the glow that she left here in this temporary home has been replaced with a glorious crown in everlasting glory…For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance-now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from sins commited under the first covenant. Hebrews 9:15
Oh Pepper, I’m so sorry about your grandmother. What a beautiful tribute to her and how wonderful that you got to share it with her before she passed! You and your family are in my prayers.
Pepper,
The song is beautiful! What a blessing for her! Peggy was a Godly, beautiful woman and was blessed with a Christian family!
Lots of love and prayers!!
Karen
What a beautiful song and I’m so glad you were able to sing it to her. I’m praying for all of you today.
Pepper,
I’m so sorry to hear of your grandmother’s passing. You have written a beautiful tribute and a wonderful song that I know blessed her heart.
I pray for God’s comfort and peace to surround you and your family in the coming days.
Thanks everyone. She was a definite inspiration, but I KNOW she’s so happy right now. More alive right now than she’s ever been.
So sorry for your loss, Pepper. But I’m happy you can see it already for such a positive thing for her. I believe our loved ones are still capable of communicating with us from beyond, whether it’s a favorite song, a feather, a penny, a bird, a butterfly. Something that means something to you. Keep your eyes open for these wonderful ways your granny will let you know she’s still right with you.
Such a lovely tribute to her! I’m sure she’s thrilled.
Prayers and hugs,
Sue
Pepper, what a beautiful tribute to your wonderful grandmother!! What a legacy she has left behind, even as scripture says, “even for a generation not yet born”…..I will be praying for you…In His love, Cate
Lovely lyrics Pepper. I’m so glad you had the chance to sing the song to your grandmother before she passed. Isn’t it wonderful that God gives us such blessings in this life as our grandmothers and such hope for seeing them again in heaven. A joy to ponder and be amazed.
Hugs,
Kathryn
So sorry for your loss, Pepper. I am praying for you and your family.
Love you, Jan
Pepper, I’m so sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing about your special grandmother.
Thank you, Missy and Janet.
Adjusting to the thought is tough, but I wouldn’t wish her back. I KNOW she’s so much happier right now.
What a comfort.