A Whisper Heavenward

by | Oct 2, 2010 | Fiction Book Reviews | 12 comments

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

12 Comments

  1. Your Bro

    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

    Reply
  2. Sherrinda

    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.

    Reply
  3. Karen

    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

    Reply
  4. Julia

    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.

    Reply
  5. Edwina Cowgill

    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.

    Reply
  6. pepper

    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.

    Reply
  7. Susan Mason

    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

    Reply
  8. cate tuten

    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

    Reply
  9. Kathryn Albright

    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

    Reply
  10. Janet C Blevins

    So sorry for your loss, Pepper. I am praying for you and your family.
    Love you, Jan

    Reply
  11. Missy Tippens

    Pepper, I’m so sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing about your special grandmother.

    Reply
    • Pepper

      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.

      Reply

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