And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
It was not without tears. It was not without pain. It was one of the worst days of my life. And yet, it was also one of the best. Whit is two. He is all boy, all joy, all love, all ours. And he is here.
(2) We have some amazing people in our lives.
Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13
You, our friends, are truly a gift from God. I have told several of you before, when you wonder how in the world we have made it this far and make it through impossible days like June 5, look no farther than yourselves. We have some angels walking with us, among us, for us - holding us up when we feel like we can't go on. God gives us to our families, but the friends we have made are one of our most magnificent rewards. I know I would do the same for my friends that they have done for me during this awful trial, but to have that unconditional love poured out from people who are not family, well, it is an amazing feeling. We are not alone.
(3) God is still the One carrying us.
My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9
We are still alive. We are still married. We smile every day. We thank God for our blessings. We feel blessed. This is not some courageous act. This is not some coincidence. Some of you are under the concept that we are the strongest people on Earth. We are not. We are filled with the love of God, and He is carrying us through this, as He promises He will. We have had the worst thing that can happen to a parent happen to us - and yet, we are still here. This is what it means to be held by the Lord. When all else fails, we can fall down at the foot of the cross and be comforted. We are still in that place, and it is safe. His grace is sufficient. It is a miracle, and we have experienced it.
We are surviving. We are grieving. We are going to be okay. We have peace, friends and grace - the most wonderful gifts from the Lord. We have fallen, but He will help us up, again and again.
Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you. Psalm 9:10
WOW -truly an amazing post. I love you Ash and am so proud to be your friend. I will continue to pray for abundance of peace, friends and grace for you and Zac.
ReplyDeleteLove you, Polls
Ashley, your words are beautiful but even more beautiful is the abundant supply of grace God is giving you in the midst of your sorrow and grief.
ReplyDeleteIndeed, He is sufficient for even our darkest and
deepest trials. You and your family continue to be in my prayers. Because He lives, Sue
You are one amazing woman!!! Your words inspire so many people. THANK YOU for sharing!!!
ReplyDeleteLove and miss you,
Heather Rutherford