The last time I saw my Grandma was over the holidays. She gave me directions to the library to return books for her. As I said goodbye, I knew it was likely I would not see her again. But I had no idea that the woman handing me her books was just weeks from death.
It was quick. But for my parents who sat with her day by day, hour by hour and minute by minute, it was long. And as I've sat 1500 miles away and prayed for my Grandmother over these last weeks my mind has returned over and over to this idea:
Death is a lot like childbirth.
Both are painful, unpredictable and hard. Some are quick, others the pains of labor are much longer. But also like childbirth, the labor is necessary for the passage into a new life. I've prayed for a quick labor for my Grandmother, for her birth into the eternal world.
And that birth is definitely worthy of celebration.
This morning, she is waking in Heaven. There is no doubt in my mind and I am truly happy for her.
Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. (NIV)
1 Corinthians 15:54-57 Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. (NLT)
This is a Tuesday's Unwrapped post.
23 Creative People Had This To Say:
So sorry to hear about your dear Grandma. I do agree 100% with this post. I lost my mom last Oct. and am missing her terribly, but glad she has had her first "birthday" in heaven too.
My condolences...~Lanie
Beautifully written, Kristen. I am sorry for your loss and praying for your family. With love, Teri Lynne
{{{HUGS}}} to you Kristen. I love your perspective, and even though I didn't know your mom, I'm happy for her to!
So sorry about your Grandmother, but I love your thoughts of celebrating her birth in heaven. Beautiful.
Blessings,
Amy
I'm so sorry to hear of your grandmother's passing. No matter how much you might expect it, it never gets easier. You can think you are prepared, but then you figure out that there are many parts of the journey in life and death. I hope you are doing ok this morning. I'm thinking of you.
Andrea
(((((((kristen)))))))
I am very sorry for your loss, but Gods gain. May He comfort you now.
I like your analogy. Isn't it wonderful that Christians can celebrate in the midst of mourning.
I, by the way, am a secret fan of your blog:) Waiting news of a referral of course!
I am so sorry for the loss of your grandmother. I agree with you and find that they are both quite like a miracle as well. In birth, a life is revealed that's been growing for nine months inside, and all of a sudden the baby is here.....only the revelation of the true miracle. In death, it is that miracle life that transcends from an earthly life to a heavenly one in the matter of a few seconds......another miracle. How can anyone not believe considering such things! take care, and celebrate her life in her death. Again, i am sorry.
Suzanne
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. You gave a beautiful depiction of your Grandmother's death. Thank-you for sharing. Keeping you and your family in my prayers as you grieve your loss.
What beautiful thoughts Kristin! Your family will be in our prayers.
Thank you, thank you, thank you-for all your virtual hugs. I have felt them very much through your words!
And thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
I've been thinking of you, Kris and have been remembering going through the same kind of thing with my grandfather just a few years back. So grateful for eternity! I've got great memories of your grandmother and sleepovers at her house as kids!
Praying for your family, and so sorry for your loss. No matter how much time there is to prepare, it is always painful, but how blessed to know she is experiencing no pain, only joy and happiness. Jackie
Kristen, I've subscribed for some months to your blog and have been blessed by your authenticity and eloquence and your heart for Jesus. So sorry to hear about your loss of your sweet Grandma...so thankful for our hope of heaven (probably sooner than we think!) and for our Great God Who is the Ultimate Comforter. May His Presence engulf you today.
Love your post Kris it is definitely full of wisdom. I'm sorry to hear about your grandma. Also, praying with you about your daughter, I have a new appreciation for your journey since Haiti happened. I love you.
"A good name is better than fine perfume and the day of death better than the day of birth" Ecc 7:1
Hey Kristen,
I just linked to your blog from Hope Studios, and your post about your Grandma is EXACTLY what I am experiencing with my Grandpa right now. We saw him at Christmas, he met his only great-grandson, and he passed away last week. What a blessing you got to see Grandma, and that she passed with such happy, recent memories of you. :)
Blessings,
Christine
(Stacey) What a beautiful post, Kris. Thanks for your perspective. I pray that God will bless you with sweet memories in these days of grieving.
So sorry to hear about your loss.
Ruth
What a sweet farewell, Kristen. Thanks for sharing. Love you, Rachel.
Beautiful farewell.
So sorry for your loss and saying prayers for your family.
We're far away from family too and many months, if not a year inbetween visits. I know how hard that distance is.
I'm sorry to hear of your loss. Yet, your perspective is so beautiful. She is truly happy and unhindered now.
I am sorry about your grandmother. Happy Heavenly birthday (love that)!
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