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As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing" (2 Corinthians 6:10).In sorrow, let the cushion of joy be the buffer.
Children and grandchildren stood vigil at the bedside of their dying 91-year-old godly mother and grandmother. Closer to the City of Light she sailed. In spite of her pain, she whispered, "He is so wonderful ... I'm so grateful ... He is so good ... I am so tired." The end was nearing. "I want to go to be with Jesus, " she sighed.
The family gathered close and began to sing, song after glorious song: "What a Friend We Have in Jesus," "What a Day That Will Be," "Soon and Very Soon, " "His Name is Wonderful. " The nurses requested another song. It was while they were singing the last verse of "It is Well with My Soul," that the monitor signaled her home-going. "And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, the clouds be rolled back as a scroll... "
God's precious child was safely Home! What joy for the saints on Heaven's shore as they awaited her entrance, yet what sorrow for the loved ones on earth who rightfully grieved their loss.
Sorrow and joy, like faithful friends, lead us to the throne of Grace where God gives us songs in the night and where hope springs eternal!
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