The later part of last year turned out to be a season of grief and suffering for many. Not only have there been unexpected deaths, but they have been compiled, one on top of another.
Had someone told me last January that my childhood idol, Prince Rogers Nelson (yes, I’m a huge fan) would suddenly leave this Earth in April, I honestly would not have believed them. Combine that with the deaths of acquaintances, a father figure, and a dear friend during the last quarter of 2016. Grief overtook me for a few days. But nothing, I mean nothing completely prepared me for the day that my beloved mother transitioned from this earthly life on May 21. But through my grief, I remembered the words of the Apostle named Peter.
In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. 1 Peter 5:10 NLT
The words that he recorded provided a much needed boost to my spirit. As I meditated on those words, I remembered that the entire year was not bad. In other words, I didn’t start the year suffering and suffering will not last. This is a season that we all will encounter at one point or another – whether it comes in the form of the death of a loved one, loss of a job, end of a relationship of major illness.
The great news is that As Peter states, after we have endured the suffering for a while, God will restore. Not only will He restore (joy, peace, faith), but He will strengthen you for the next phase of your life’s journey. Most importantly God will set you on a firm foundation.
Those words were such an encouragement to my spirit because they tell me that I am going to be alright and so will you despite whatever is going on in your life.
Years ago, my mother shared how she loved this song by Mahalia Jackson and wanted it to be played at her funeral whenever she passed away. Since most cannot do her songs justice, I decided to have this tribute video played at the service incorporating the song in order to honor her instruction. The blessing in this song is that my Mother devoted her life to the Lord and before she left this Earth, she assured me that she was ready to go. So while the daughter on Earth misses her terribly, as she’s been gone one month ago today, I as a Child of God know that her suffering has truly ended and for that I can find reason to rejoice.
THIS IS WONDERFUL. LOVE YOU TERALEEN. MAY GOD CONTINUE TO GIVE YOU THE STRENGTH EACH AND EVERDAY. I KNOW HOW MUCH IT HURTS BUT BELIEVE ME EACH DAY GETS A LITTLE EASIER.
This was a beautiful tribute and testament you and your mother’s faith. Trouble doesn’t last always and joy comes in the morning !
I’m more thankful for this post than you can know, Teraleen! Thank you for sharing, and please know it has blessed me in providing me peace in a gentle, but necessary nudge. Peace be still, and God bless you, Minister Campbell! ❤️
Awesome homage to a beautiful woman of God, who is now with our heavenly father. My prayers and thoughts are with you, Teraleen. Be encouraged to know that you shall meet your beloved mom again on the other side!
Thank you for sharing this post and the scripture. Grieving is a part of what we will go through after the loss of a loved one. It is very true nothing prepares us for the loss of a parent but the scripture you chose is perfect for understanding the process. God will restore (it does take time) and prepare your firm foundation. Amen!
Very well said Soror! Blessings to you always and continue to be a blessing to others…SZL, Rosa
Beautiful. May you continue to find comfort as you grieve. I, too, believe that nothing prepares you for the day your mother leaves this earth but eventually your new reality will improve. If there’s anything I can do, please let me know.
A beautiful tribute to your mom. I was blessed to have shared in the celebration of life with you.
Thank you all so much for your kind words! I am happy that this blog touched you.
That was so beautiful! Praise God!!!