The Love of Jesus Tangible in Ada
This morning before I was even out of bed, a dear friend sent me a text with some sweet words of encouragement. The funny thing is, the words were from a devotional from Jesus Calling of which almost all of my friends here in Dallas happen to also have. I had left my copy at home, but her text left me wanting to read the whole entry. So, I of course went straight to Jenn’s office and picked up her copy.
The following is the entry from today (October 14th, 2010). I just sat and read it, as I laid resting next to Jenn. As I listened to every breath and cherished the time I have here, I thought about how honored I am to call her friend and that her family would call me family. Though the past few days have been filled with deep sadness, I think I can speak on behalf of all of us, that we have been surrounded and blessed by love, prayer and FOOD! J
BE PREPARED TO SUFFER FOR ME, in My Name. All suffering has meaning in my Kingdom (oh how I wish we could understand it now). Pain and problems are the opportunities to demonstrate your trust in Me. Bearing your circumstances bravely — even thanking Me for them —is one of the highest forms of praise. This sacrifice of thanksgiving rings golden-toned bells of Joy throughout heavenly realms. On earth also, your patient suffering sends out ripples of good tidings in ever-widening circles (oh how we have seen this to be true).
When suffering strikes, remember that I am sovereign and that I can bring good out of everything. Do not try to run from the pain (I’m learning. Curry said this morning, ‘remember Jesus is the Rock and you’re allowed to be human) or hid from problems. Instead, accept adversity in My Name, offering it up to Me for my purposes. Thus, your suffering gains meaning and draws you closer to Me. Joy emerges from ashes of adversity through your trust and thankfulness.
James 1:2-4, Psalm 107:21-22
~Sarah Young, Jesus Calling
More to come, just know we are blessed and feel so loved. Keep the prayers coming.
Jenn went to be with the Lord this evening. Thank you for your prayers and your love during this time. Her family and husband would appreciate you continued prayers as they deal with such a great loss. http://www.jennsstory.wordpress.com