The Reality of Grief

 

Over the past several weeks we have experienced something to say the least, has been overwhelming.  In a period of six days we lost members, Malcolm Paxton, Gene Sandlin, Troy Sullivan, and Darold Chaney. Each a member of the church, leaving wonderful families, and all happened very suddenly after battling different illnesses. This past Saturday we received word that our Brother, Fred Hurley had gone home to be with the Lord.

Families, and many in the church are all grieving. Some of these had lived great long lives, but losing a loved one is never easy, regardless.

While we claim the promises of Scripture, it does bring comfort to know our loved one is not suffering.  It brings joy to realize that our faith has become sight and the promise of Heaven is a reality.

Saturday marked thirty seven years since Renee's dad passed away.  I don't believe there is a day that goes by that she doesn't think about him or long to see him.

Grief is real, and we lift up our church family.  What a blessing to see our folks serving and ministering through meals and meeting needs during this time of great loss.

These are the lyrics from a Mike Bowling Family song entitled,

"The People That God Gives You"

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I got the call this morning
I can't believe he's gone
Thought he'd be here forever
But one more time, time proved me wrong

It was just a week ago
Thought I should call and say Hello
Now I'm reminded once again
Life's a vapor in the wind

Love the people that God gives you
They're a gift that Heaven sent
Live and laugh and make some memories
Treasure every moment spent
Cause none of us are here forever
That's a proven fact
Love the people that God gives you
Cause one day, he'll want them back

Each day the mirror tells the story
I wonder where the time has gone
Children laughing round the table
They now have children of their own
There may be things you need to say
So why today is still today
You have the chance to hold them close
One more chance to let them know

Love the people that God gives you
They're a gift that Heaven sent
Live and laugh and make some memories
Treasure every moment spent
Cause none of us are here forever
That's a proven fact
Love the people that God gives you
Cause one day, he'll want them back

Oh the list keeps getting longer
Friends and family that i miss
But when I think about what matters most
It all comes down to this

None of us are here forever
That's a proven fact
Love the people that God gives you
Cause one day, he'll want them back