Last Sunday, our friends' 4-month-old son, Roman, succumbed to a terminal lung disease.
There aren't sufficient words to describe the heartache. No one should have to face a loss like this.
Friday brought a heavy storm of rain, lightening and thunder. A double rainbow briefly appeared through the darkened sky. The past five days had been intensely emotional, and I once again found myself crying-- at the force and beauty of nature, at the hurt and joy that life brings, at early goodbyes and relief from physical pain.
The next morning, the rain dried and the sun rose. Scott watched the kids so I could focus on Roman's services.
This little fighter comes from a family of love, strength, and deep faith. Their tender courage has touched my life.
As they laid Roman to rest beside his cousin-- who passed 4 years earlier from a similar condition-- they bore unshakable testimony of our Savior and His promises. Roman is their son forever, and they will one day have a joyful reunion in heaven.
I don't know why we each face pain and suffering and heartbreak. But I do know that we can find peace in this life and hope for the life to come. The certain promise of sunlight makes our storms possible to bear, especially when we aren't bearing those storms alone. For this, I am so very thankful.
"Be still, my soul:
The hour is hast'ning on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul:
When change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last."
-Katharina von Schlegel
The hour is hast'ning on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul:
When change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last."
-Katharina von Schlegel
