Even in Loss – Say “Yes” to God

This topic, former procrastinators, has come to me with the unexpected passing of a dear friend who was also mentor and counsellor.  I’m learning as I grieve and process her passing. If I put those off now by saying “no” to God because I did not want this, I’ll suffer additional loss and grief.  Lord, help me say “yes” to you and learn.  His sure and steady hand is leading me forward.

We met Mary and Bill Fawcett in Brazil where Bill was our pastor. Mary was with us when our baby was stillborn.  We said we lost a child.  That bothered me.  She wasn’t lost, she was in the arms of Jesus.  I knew where she was just as I know where Mary is now and rejoice for her. But there is loss when someone we love dies, tragedy changes lives, or great disappointment comes.  What is lost?

In this case, someone I value greatly is no longer available to me, a precious earthly relationship is ended, hopes, expectations, plans are dashed.  Death intruded, bringing unwanted finality to part of life I hold dear.

At this point, I know I’m saying “yes” to:

Grief.  In Mary’s words, “Tears are a gift from God.”   They help heal my heart.

Longing.  I’ll need counsel and want her wisdom.  I’ll need prayer and want hers.  I’ll miss her- her practicality, her laugh, fun, comfort, her challenges to my growth.  I’ll miss scripture in her voice.

Surrender.  God is sovereign, wise, loving.  I bow my will to His.  There were things I wanted to learn from Mary and had not yet.  I wasn’t “ready” to be without her.

Lack of understanding.  God, why do you think this is a good idea?  I don’t know, but, again, He is sovereign and loving. His ways are higher than mine.

Trust.  A mutual friend sings “When You Can’t  See His Hand, Trust His Heart.”  Somehow, our friend’s passing is good for me.

New responsibilities. Without my friend to turn to, I’m compelled to delve more deeply into the Word myself.  The example she set is one I’m called to follow.

Aloneness – especially in certain areas.  I’m thrown more into the presence of the Lord as my dearest Friend.

Courage.  When God gave Joshua leadership of the Isrealites, Moses was gone.  But God told Joshua to take courage and find success by meditating on His Word and doing all that was in it.

A deeper walk with the Holy Spirit.  He used Mary to help me through hard times. He used her to make me hungry for His Word and for sharing Him with others.  Now He’s using her departure to draw me closer to Him for even more ahead. 

May I be faithful.

Is there a loss the Lord wants you to say “yes” to?