Grandparents, parents, friends pass away.  Death is inevitable. The timing is sometimes not ok with us. A child, a young parent, an inexplicable demise…like Lazarus. His sisters were not expecting his death and they were upset that Jesus was not there to help them in their sorrow and loss. My grandparents, of course, have long since passed away, both parents are gone and yesterday my only sibling, my brother died.  Why would I even bring this up, death has intruded in all of our families? Besides my sorrow, I actually felt like an “orphan.”  When that feeling flitted into my mind, I was surprised! I have a wonderful husband, great sons, daughter-in-laws that are the best, grandchildren, step-children, nieces, nephews….YET that “I am alone feeling” washed in like waves crashing on shore.  Hearing that he had just died sent the sorrow wave slamming into me. At some point in your life, you may have experienced this too.

What is the reality?  That we are loved unconditionally and NEVER alone. Isn’t that wonderful? My brief pity-party subsided as I focused on our Savior and His love for me. I was on a bereavement path but the LORD was right with me.  All the waves of emotion did not change the fact that I am loved and never left alone.

Deuteronomy 31:8 “God is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you. He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t worry.”  This reminder to Joshua is for all of us. God will not leave us.

Thank you, Abba, Father!

Jill