I'm not really sure that I have the most appropriate words for today. But I knew there was something that I needed to share here. It's been a quarter of a century (that's 25 years) since our family has had to 'deal' with one of the tougher times together. Since 'that day' we've all had different moments when we've questioned God. We've had different lessons taught to us as a result of the experiences we've gone through. For those of you who don't know the 'history' of my family. Twenty-five years ago, my younger sister (who was 14 months old at the time) passed away pretty suddenly. If you're interested in more of the story - feel free to ask - as a family, we're pretty open to sharing our story with anyone who's interested.
One of the most common questions I've wrestled with throughout the years has been the 'simple' question of "Why?" There's been numerous times that I've been given different answers to that question. It's all been a matter of where I've been and the time I've been there. God has placed me (us) in places that I would never have expected to be placed, but somehow our 'story' has proven to be the one that was needed to be shared and heard in those moments.
Without a doubt, I've been able to say that God has brought me through a few tough times - here and there. Really, what more can I ask for? "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31b).
Don't get me wrong folks. I'm not saying that all is 'fine and dandy' all the time. No, I don't have 'answers' for all of the questions (and even doubts) that my heart has held. But, knowing THE answer that can get us through all that life has to offer us is pretty comforting.
Are you needing 'comfort'? I've got some GOOD NEWS for you. There's nothing, absolutely nothing, that can separate us from God's love.
"And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory. What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else?" Romans 8:30-32 (NLT)
4 comments:
I think.... Stephanie is smiling right now.
Thanks Shawna for your great words of wisdom today and also over the past years ... YOU are a remarkable daughter and a wonderful sister! Although we all miss Stephane very much, I want to say today (I've said it before) ... YOU'VE been a strong tower for Dad & I .... more often than you can ever imagine!
Love you Sis!
Mom
Shawna,
Not sure if I can write what my heart is wishing to say. I echo what Mom said, You have been and still are a 'strong tower' for us. You have helped more than you can imagine. We are so blessed to have you for our daughter. Stephanie may not be here but she will always be a part of our lives - tomatoes and chocolate cake :-)!. We know that God has used this to help others and I am sure there will be other opportunities along the way...but until then, when we meet her again, let's be faithful.
Love you
Dad
A great posting Shawna. I love your honesty and the message of God's love is revealing of how this event in the lives of the Goulding family only added to the strength of character in all three of you! A great reunion is coming!
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