Psalm 23

A beautiful friend’s Stepmother is dying; neither she nor her stepmom are afraid. Yesterday, over egg scrambles and bacon, my friend spoke of the comfort Psalm 23 has brought them.

The love and grace of God are evident in this ending. I know this is not always so.

It was not the case for me when my father died. He left us quickly. And for my needs: too soon. We did not discuss where he was going.

I'll never know if he would have found comfort in this. But today I do. I hope you do, too.

“The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,

he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.

Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.” (Psalm 23, a psalm of David.)

Today when I pray for all of you, I include special prayers for those of you who are facing or grieving the loss of a loved one.

I know that someday, my faith will be tested with a loss that shatters. I hope when this storm comes, I am as strong and graceful as my friend is today. I don’t know that I will be.

I do know that when that time comes I will be thankful, as always, for her beautiful, bright church lady presence in my life.

Bless you Beautiful Ladies! Thank you for brightening this world with your church lady love.
xoxox, Cheeky