life and death...

These past few months Josh and I have encountered some pretty real moments as we have said goodbye to 2 people we have loved dearly. We have tried to understand just a little more of what heaven could possibly have in store as it becomes just a bit more real when those you love are moved there. As discussed in our most recent newsletter, my grandma went home to be with Jesus in October of this year. We were in the States. Although grandma Dorothy was never able to meet Elana, I know they would have been fast friends. We were able to celebrate her life and still morn the moments we still had hoped to share with her.

Then on November 8 my life-changing friend and cousin was released of her earthly battle with cancer and was restored to her eternal home in heaven. Although as I write this I shed tears. Knowing she was only days older than Josh. That there are so many moments I wanted to share with her here on earth. Knowing there were so many more questions I wanted to ask her about her life and experiences. Knowing she will never be at our Marti family christmas. It hurts deep but the healing that she found in her Savior through death gives me hope. Hope that one day we will share in heaven the sweet fellowship that seems so distant now. How does a person try to understand the ways of the Lord? We can't - Isaiah 55:8 & 9 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways, my ways, saith the Lord. For as high as the heaven are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." but we can keep focused and trusting through so many encouraging verses in the Bible. One of my favorites is Isaiah 26:3&4 "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the Lord forever; for in the Lord JEHOVAH is everlasting strength."

What powerful words. Tina you will aways be remembered. She has 3 wonderful daughters and a kind Godly husband and countless family and friends that will share her testimony only to glory the Lord. I was blessed to go to Kansas with my family for the funeral and visitation. This was a hard time but such an important time for me, Josh, Oliver & Elana to share memories with so many that knew here like I did. She touched many lives in her home town, even the cook at the small hotel we stayed at knew her. So as I am reminded of many who miss her dearly this christmas season. I am blessed to know we can be thankful for the breathe we are given to proclaim God's name here on earth or thankful for when the breathe is no more and we live eternally with the one that Saves, Heals, and gives deep hope and comfort.

Thankful for His birth which gives victory to our earthly death.