Surrounded…

     A nine hour drive to the hospital. Anxious thoughts surrounded the miles. The sky was already dark pulling into the parking lot even though it was only 5:30. Bitter cold surrounded me as I stepped out.

How does one say goodbye while still showing joy, hope, peace?

Surrounding him were a wife of only two years (even though he was 79), sons who knew they hadn’t made enough efforts over the years, friends who longed for more time.

Yet as we entered fear was dispelled and Comfort and Love showed up – not because of me but because of the One who is Comfort, who is Love. Pulling up a chair hands clasped hard, long eye contact, and murmured words of assurance from both the one dying and the one being left behind now surrounded all in the room.

Over the next couple of days as a heart grew weaker, witness grew stronger. Prayers were shared, the Word of life was read – loudly. Fear was dispelled, soon quiet surrounded – no more monitors, just the hushed waiting.

We all must say goodbye – it never gets easier. Each time carries its own weights, its own memories. But how will we be surrounded?

Surrounded by the Light, the Everlasting – or by fear, by helplessness… “Many are the woes of the wicked, but the Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in Him.” (Psalm 32:10 NIV)

Finally a couple last breaths were taken, eyes fluttered briefly open, and then a soul passed on. Only the Lord knows the heart but it would seem this soul found his way. In times of great joy or deep sorrow – how will we be surrounded? It’s not if we will find ourselves in these times, it’s when. Prepared to offer perfect peace, indescribable joy – or at a loss for words, longing for comfort.

“You are my hiding place; You will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.” (Psalm 32:7 NIV)

Surrendered and surrounded by a good, good God. Loved and led by the Light of our soul. Our time here is a dash between two dates, but eternity with Him will not be numbered – endless, the way life was truly intended to be. Someday the song of deliverance, ours always…

If you stopped by because you read my devotion today over at Encouragement Cafe, WELCOME!   So glad you are here!