This week, I am reflecting on God’s work in my life and how far He has brought me. Tomorrow, May 15th, marks twelve years since Dave went to be with Jesus. His death seems like yesterday, but also a lifetime ago. I have grown so much, but at the same time, I am still finding my way.

The picture below popped up in my memories last night. This was taken the day before Dave came home sick from work, starting our chaotic year (May 2012-May 2013). We both looked so calm, like we didn’t have a care in the world. How quickly that would change!

I’ll take the day off work tomorrow to give myself some space to feel and do whatever is needed. I don’t quite know what I will do yet, but I have some ideas. In the evening, Lydia and I will celebrate Dave’s life with a friend who knew him here. He loved tacos and pizza, so we are planning to get… taco pizza in his honor. 😉 I also have a pretty necklace to give Lydia, keeping up my tradition of making the day something to celebrate, not dread.

Naturally, it is a little bittersweet, but God has been so, so good to me. He has been my Rock and always sees to it that I have what I need. God has given me Lydia, and she is such a gift. He helps me parent her, sometimes in very creative ways! God has provided for me financially through work and other means, and He has given me a solid community of support, both near and far. Thank you!

This week is also tough as we celebrated the first Mother’s Day without my mom. Mom loved Dave as much as she loved my brothers. It brings me comfort knowing they are together again! I am inspired by how they never complained about their agonizing pain or struggle. In both cases, they sought Jesus right up until the end. Although their bodies gave out, they finished their races strong.

We can’t have great victories if we never have a battle, and we can’t celebrate a win if we don’t fight through something first. Life has many unexpected twists and turns, but we can always trust God. None of this is ever easy, but God is always with me. And, if you turn to Him, He will be with you, too!

Of course, we love and miss Dave and Mom so much. Grief is a long-term thing, but it’s hard to stay sad for long when I think about them in Heaven. They are safe, secure, and whole. More alive than ever before. And someday soon, all of God’s plans will fully come together. Those who belong to Jesus in Heaven and on Earth will be reunited. What joy that will be!

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Father in Heaven, You have been so, so good to me. Thanks for Your faithfulness and grace. May my life point others to You and bring You glory. Help me keep moving forward. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How do you celebrate the memory of those you love who have died? Have you accepted God’s free gift of salvation through Jesus? (Don’t delay, do it today!)

Tasks: Listen to this song, “Been So Good,” by Elevation Worship. Take some time to look back on how God has been so good to you. If interested, check out my book!