Mourning

Another of Dad's sisters has taken her flight across the divide between the present and eternity. It was expected, of course being in God's hands we just didn't know exactly when. Then a dear sister from Church, went into Hospice care a few days ago. That is three in just a few short days. Aunt Delores was expected, my Niece Tracy, only 41 was not expected. Just a few months ago Lisa from church was leading our songs in our small group and we were so pleased to have another capable voice to help us. It was just that one time and then she was sick. Still a young woman, Lisa was not expected to leave us so soon a few months ago, but when she went to Hospice Care, we knew unless God provided a miracle it wouldn't be long. Aunt Delores was receiving care from her family for seven years. Much longer than most of us expected. Tracy was just unexpected, she was young and possibly not even half way through her life when looking at the longevity of her parents. All three are now in the hands of a loving God. God alone knows the number of our days. My expectation is another 20 years, but I really don't know. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. Psalm 139:16
 None of these deaths were a surprise to God. He still gives us free choice, and that free choice can affect our days. A smoker can shorten his life with his habit, A careless driver or someone given to road rage can shorten their days, but still it is not a surprise to God.  God knew every day that was formed for each of these precious children before they were born. We mourn the loss of these loved ones. Those left behind will miss them, but when we know their ticket to eternity was bought long ago, it makes it somewhat easier. I hope my words do not sound calloused or uncaring. Each was loved by family and friends and greatly missed. We  do need to be prepared, we do not know the number of our days. One was in her eighties, had a full life, one just forty-one, many years expected ahead of her.  The third was also too young, possibly in her forties also. Only God knows the number of our days. He promises to be with us through every trial, every stage of life, when we turn our hearts over to him. We need to be ready. God bless, LVZ.