IN OTHER WORDS – ” Mothers hold their child’s hand for a moment and their heart for a lifetime.”

Yes, she still holds my heart. Dec. 3rd will mark 19 years since my mother crossed that line over into Heaven’s glory. I cannot believe it is that long. I still feel the deep ache in my heart and long to have just one more conversation.

Because my mother died right after Thanksgiving, the holiday always brings back those memories. And at Thanksgiving, I once again give thanks for my mother. I remember her encouragement and kindness. Her understanding and compassion. A simple woman who never asked much for herself. Always looking out for others and embracing those who may have otherwise been ignored or forgotten.  A determined woman who diligently sought the Lord and prayed for truth in her life and for her family. She left a “religion” to discover a Pentecostal experience and a “joy unspeakable and full of glory.” I will never forget the joy in her heart that shone through her, a true light of Christ in this dark world. My  mother loved Jesus, first and foremost. She believed in the scripture to love God with all her heart, mind and soul. Her Bible is tattered and torn and filled with notes. Her prayer list was written, added to, written over again. She didn’t just pray for individuals, she prayed for churches, for organizations, for entire countries. She fought the hard battles of sickness and disease. Of rejection and disappointments. Oh, but what a reward she has now! I thank God for blessing me with this amazing woman and for granting me the honor to care for her in her last days.And oh, what a glorious reunion we will have one day!

If you have lost a loved one and the holidays are difficult, remember Jesus has promised to never leave us or forsake us. Draw close to Him and He will draw close to you. We have a faithful Father and I pray your holiday season will be blessed with His love and goodness. May God surround you with the comfort and strength of His beautiful presence.