Pastor John,
My youngest sister wrote me yesterday to tell me they found her stepson dead in his room at his mama’s house, on Christmas. They are going to do an autopsy, but my daughter suspects it may have been an overdose. He was in his 20s. He grew up back and forth between my house and theirs because we were all so close. It hurts my heart to think about the fact it is over for him. There is no more time to change or fix things, there is no more time for him.
As I read some of his parents’ and family comments being posted, I felt a new tenderness for this world. I do not know if Jesus feels this way, I just know I feel it. They posted of “a new angel in heaven who is hearing every prayer,” and other similar comments. I felt such a sad tenderness to let them have their comfort where they can find it. If they are not going to have the true Comforter, then let them comfort themselves with the lies of the world. It left me feeling like it was a mercy for them. Everyone will know the truth one day. If they refuse to know it here in this world, then let them have their comfort while they can.
I don’t know if I have felt such a sad tenderness before.
I feel so humbled for what Jesus did for me. I don’t have a place to get low enough to show Jesus what my heart is feeling. Not the floor, not the dirt. I feel like I can feel why Old Testament characters covered themselves in ashes to reach God. In my heart, I want to cover in ash and just tell Jesus that I can see what he did for me, the depth of what he did.
If I could just take my heart out and lay it at his feet, just to lay at his feet, that is what I feel.
Beth D
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Hi Beth.
It is so sad when a young person dies. God help the family. I do think Jesus shares your tender feelings toward those who are hurting because of losing a loved one. God is good and gentle even with those who have rejected His precious Son…. But then, the Judgment.
I hope the young man’s death turns somebody’s thoughts toward God and eternity.
Thank you for writing.
Pastor John