What a difficult weekend for so many in our community with the loss of 3 wonderful people within 2 short days. One was my Bible study sister, Taira, who passed away unexpectedly yesterday following a heart attack. I have known her since we were very little girls and was so happy to have the chance to reconnect with her this past year through our small group.
As I sat in church this morning listening to the music selections, I had to smile, even through tears at times. So many of the songs seemed perfectly chosen for this trying weekend. 'In the Garden' is a long time family favorite hymn, and as the bell choir performed it I heard the words in my head... What a beautiful picture of our loving Father.
"And he walks with me and he talks with me,
and he tells me I am his own.
And the joy we share as we tarry there
none other has ever known."
Then they played 'Jesus Loves Me'. A perfect reminder of Taira's loving influence on so many young children over the years through her daycare.
"Jesus loves me, this I know
for the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong,
They are weak but He is strong.
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so."
'It is Well With My Soul' is another dearly loved hymn. Today the lyrics caused me to think of Taira and the quiet yet faithful way she approached her days. Regardless of the situation, she truly seemed resolved to just calmly and quietly press ahead. Whether it be peace or sorrow... she just pressed on.
"When peace like a river attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul."
As we sang 'Just a Closer Walk With Thee', I thought of the suddenness of Taira's death. So often, we assume we can know how long we might have with friends and loved ones. We can never know. But, though unexpected, I know Taira was prepared and ready.
"When my feeble life is over,
Time for me will be no more;
Guide me gently, safely over
To Thy kingdom shore, to Thy shore.
Just a closer walk with Thee,
Grant it, Jesus, is my plea.
Daily walking close to Thee,
Let it be, dear Lord, let it be."
Ending with 'To God be the Glory' was truly a gift. A precious reminder of the glory ahead. A glory that Taira now knows.
"Great things He has taught us, great things He has done,
And great our rejoicing through Jesus the Son;
But purer and higher and greater will be
Our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see.
Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord
Let the earth hear His voice!
Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord,
Let the people rejoice!
O come to the Father, through Jesus the Son,
And give Him the glory, great things He has done."
Please keep not only Taira's family in your prayers (including her parents, sister, husband, 2 children and 1 precious grand baby), but also the families of Gary S. and John D. There is much sorrow in our community this weekend. May we reach out to others with love and compassion as we hold onto the hope that is in Jesus.
