the shadow of death

I know you are expecting that DWTS post.  But it was not meant for today.

This morning I went to a lovely Book Study for the faith group I attend here in town.  It was a sweet time of sharing and learning and encouraging.  When I got in the car I turned on my phone. (Before I drove off) and there was a message from Janet (my sister).

"Katie Wagner is in heaven with Jesus.  Our hearts are broken."

My heart breaks too for them.

Our human hearts are meant to love.  That is the very best thing they can do.  Love.
This is what Jesus wants us to do most of all.
So when our loved ones are not with us it is crushing.
It is painful.  It is horrible.

And yet.

We must go on.

So many dear friends have had to say goodbye for now to their husbands and children and siblings in the last three years it really is quite shocking to me.  I was just thinking yesterday that I didn't expect this in the 50's.  But I didn't expect it when I was 16 either.  And I will never expect it for the  young ones.

I will never understand.

So I cling to God's promises.

Psalm 23: 1-6

1	The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want;
2	he makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters;
3	he restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4	Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.
5	Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemies; thou anointest my head with oil, my cup overflows.
6	Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

With love,
Donna