Death

Just before we left the United States in July a teenager who had grown up in our church died very unexpectedly.  We flew back to Germany before the service and could not be a part of the corporate mourning which happens in church communities at such times.  I felt sad and lost for quite a few days.

This past weekend our Sunday School class from Orange County camped at the beach as they do every September for years.  Living in Germany, we heard about the plans and reflected on the lovely memories of San Clemente and the early morning walks in the sand.  But, late Saturday evening, we received word that a young father from the class had suffered a seizure.  He went to be with Jesus late that night.  Again, I am mourning, but not with the Community at large.  No one here in Germany knows either of these people or their families except Smitty and I.  My heart struggles to share my love and encouragement with those who are left.  But nothing is really adequate.

These are not the first deaths of friends and acquaintances since we have come to serve in Germany.  Each time, though, the story is the same.  Parents, children, good friends pass and I long to be the physical touch, one who brings food, attends the service, or just stands by.

The result of this turmoil in my heart is that I MUST pray.  God and I have a closer walk due to the necessity of taking my pain and concern to someone.  A Someone who knows far better than I what those who are left behind need.   A Someone whose plan is far more effective than mine.

So, this weekend when friends and family at Bethany Bible Fellowship honor and mourn, in community,  for a young father and husband,  I will be mourning and praying...and trusting that even if  I don't know how to pray, the One Who loves us all more than we can know, understands and hears.