I was visiting Mumsie a couple of days ago and I brought my laptop, so we could look at old family pictures to pass the time. We had so much fun laughing at pictures of ourselves from long ago.
Then unexpectedly, we came across a series of photos from last August. I didn't even remember taking them. They seem almost prophetic. Do you see that sweet little smile and the love in his eyes?
Then especially this one of glory light on Dad's empty chair. This is the chair where he always sat. Mom and I gasped when we saw this picture. You see--when Dad had this last stroke, Mom knew before anyone else that he would not be returning home.
Soon Daddy will be with Jesus in Heaven. He will be able to leap, jump, run and walk again. Dad will be free of that chair and the neck brace he had to wear day and night. He will see his own Dad, Mom, brothers, sisters and dear friends who have gone before him. We rejoice over the day Dad will be free from his earth suit. Though those of us who are left behind will grieve. But we do not grieve as those who have no hope.
"Things which eye has not seen and ear has not heard, and which have not entered the heart of man, all that God has prepared for those who love Him." (1 Corinthians 2:9)
"Let not your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also." (John 14-1-3)
We will see Dad again. In this we have hope. God bless you all.
11/17/2012: This afternoon, while setting up for a performance, I suddenly became so dizzy I could not stand up. It felt like a piece of me was suddenly missing. I knew Dad was gone--15 minutes later a phone call confirmed what my heart had already told me. Thank you for your warm thoughts and loving prayers for me and for my beloved family.
What a comfort you, Clytie, and your mom have knowing this! The empty chair - incredible!
ReplyDeleteThis Christmas will very very meaningful for your whole family - joy and mourning all wrapped together.