As we all sit in the shadow of yesterday and "unpack" all that we have felt, seen and heard it is also important to share with one another. Through out the process of grieving for Derek and Dylan, we have been, and will continue be, touched my God in many ways.
This is a place where we can share with one another the many tiny miracles and works to be played out through Derek and Dylan's passing.
That a dear friend of Derek's, a friend we've all prayed for and loved, accepted Christ on Tuesday night.
ReplyDeleteThat as Derek and Dylan were buried, the sun came out for the first time, making us know that we are not alone and that they were blessed.
That as we hear recounted details from Thursday night through yesterday we realize that a chain of people cared for Derek and Dylan that knew and loved them. Thids was clearly divined and a comfort to those left behind.
AS I prayed and wrote in my journal... on Easter I prayed for you, my heart was sad and weighed down. In preparing for Bible Study for this week (Gal 5:22-23, Fruit of the Spirit) I was lead to word studies for JOY and Gentleness. My first cross-reference, lead by none other than the Holy Spirit:
ReplyDelete"After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. After the fire came a gentle whisper." 1 Kings 19:12
Charity, may you know the gentleness of God's whisper.
And, "I tell you the truth you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy." John 16:20
And then, "Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength." Neh 8:10
Charity, May God bless you with strength and joy this season, and always.
And for faith that renewed my hope through the POWER of His Word, His Suffering and His Holy Spirit that guided my prayers... I trust and believe in God's greatness and a love that penetrates our story and makes it His story... that is the beauty of a our relational God.
"You turned my wailing into dancing, You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever."
(the vision of you two dancing at the Landin's dangerous party in Chi-town filled me with joy)
Dear Charity, These are the Words that reminded my of His greatness, they were born out of prayer for you. I give thanks to God for Derek and the blessing of having met him in his short life here. I give thanks for God taking him home to heaven. I give God thanks for the grace and strength he is blessing you with, AND I give God thanks for the JOY I know he promises for you and Ella and Johanna. In Christ's Glorious Name, I know he suffered, died and was crucified for us, and I give thanks for His Spirit He left to comfort and guide us.
Love Victoria (Mullins) Carlson