Window of Hope


Today marks nine years since my dad was released from his broken body that was ravaged by years of battling Alzheimer's. As the sadness of that day threatens to spill over on this dreary, rainy Saturday morning, I'm reminded that just like a prisoner on his much anticipated release date, my dad was finally freed. And while it was a heartbreaking, excruciatingly long journey for his family and friends to have to witness, it was finally finished on March 23, 2004.You can read about my dad's loving legacy here.   http://oodlesofgrace.blogspot.com/2011/11/my-daddys-loving-legacy.html 

Instead of fighting this sadness, I've decided to snuggle under my warm blanket of melancholy. Not for long, mind you, maybe not even the whole day. But I need to nestle down, reminisce and have a good cry.

I've often wondered if my dad is aware of my journey here. I've read commentaries and blogs arguing for and against the belief that those in heaven can see us on earth. Many believe they can offer prayers on our behalf. And while that thought is comforting to me, others counter that knowing our struggles would lessen the perfection of heaven. So it's simply not possible. There seems to be scripture supporting both sides.

I do know that I've been with many people as they've taken their last breath, and they often reach and call out for a loved one who has passed. If you were there, I don't think you would doubt that loved ones often come back to usher the dying into heaven. Is it possible that they come back more than we think? 



I prefer to think that God, being his omniscient, glorious self, has a special little window in heaven for each of his children. At certain times, the curtain is pulled back, and they can look down and get a glimpse into their family's lives. And maybe there are times when the window is slung wide open, and they can actually be present with us. A birth. A baptism. A wedding. A passing. A welcoming home.



And maybe, just maybe, my dad is looking out his window today. A smile tugs at his lips as his dimple deepens. He whispers a promise. "Not long. It's not long until we will all be enjoying this incredible perfection of heaven together." His face brightens. "Oh, the things I have to show you. The places we will go. The joy we have to share as we spend eternity together. Friends. Family. And most importantly, the One who made it all possible. Our Father. Our Savior. Our Hope."


But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”—
1 Corinthians 2:9






4 comments:

  1. I recently lost my mother (October 2012) after taking care of her in my home for a little more than 12 year. My children (6 of them), my husband and I miss her so much. The thoughts you articulate in this post echo my own. My mom prayed for us faithfully while she was still with us. I'd like to think that she is praying for us still.

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  2. What a beautiful honor to your Dad and what glory given to the Father who is looking after all of us...I like to think too that our loved ones in heaven have a glimpse into our lives and are cheering us on...One day we will see them again and oh what shouting of praise will be going on.....along with the Father who will be so glad we are all together....

    That last photograph is absolutely stunning.....

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  3. Thank You, Susan. Thank You.
    For one who has recently been through the death of her Mama, she knows that Mama spoke with others who I know had gone before her as she called or spoke their names.
    Caring through Christ, ~ linda

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  4. Susan,
    If your dad is looking out of one of heaven's windows, then I hope my mom is looking out one nearby. A lovely tribute to honor your dad. Blessings to you.

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