If something seems bad, turn it around, and find something good!
The thing about these songs is they get stuck in your head after just one episode, because of the repetition. I found myself humming this tune throughout the day, and then reflected on it while I was out for a walk this evening.
Losing our son is something so bad, but we are determined to make something good out of it. After hearing my husband share our story in church, and sharing on my blog, I feel bold! I'm not afraid to share anymore, and I know it is Christ who gives me the strength.
One personal blessing that has come of this tragedy is that I am able to stay home and raise my 3-year-old daughter, Alice, until she starts kindergarten.
When our son passed away, we set up a memorial fund at Hilmar Christian Children's Center, not knowing what the funds would go to. Our family was thrilled to learn that a playhouse would be provided for the children in memory of Jonah.
I want my son's life to have meaning, and I pray that others might be touched somehow because of his existence. (I know I will never be the same!) Adam and I have recently started brainstorming about possibly setting up a scholarship fund in Jonah's memory. And since I am a runner, I would like to put on a virtual race in the future, in honor of Jonah. I am excited about the possible ways my son's brief life can still leave a legacy.
When I opened up a devotional email before bed, I came across a Bible verse that spoke to me:
May you fight for redemption of your pain so that you can say, "God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering." (Genesis 41:52)
God has definitely been working in me and my husband, to make this experience fruitful in our lives. As Christians, we will have trials, but God can use them for his good purpose, if only we will let him. We don't fully understand God's purpose, but we know he will use this for his glory.
Jonah's one hour has had a great impact on all of us. And you are quite right, we will never be the same. I can not say this enough, I'm thankful that God gave Adam such a wonderful, faith-filled wife. I know there are still lots of tears, moments of being lost in grief, waves of emptiness ...to come. Yet, I know that your eyes will continue to be fixed on Jesus and the promise of eternity with Him, Jonah, and many others of our faithful family!
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