You know I love my calling, my job, our church family and Charleston. I feel extremely honored to have the privilege of teaching God’s Word, leading this family. Even so, there are times, just like with anyone, my emotions can get overwhelmed.
A week or so ago, our daughter Erin and Trey, announced they were expecting. They announced early knowing the need for prayer. They have already lost two babies in the second trimester. Pretty sure they had this one figured out, they joyfully announced and immediately asked family and friends for prayer. They were wonderfully overwhelmed with support.
Last Friday something happened and they lost the baby. The same day Erin was in the hospital, Janie and Brook were hosting a baby shower for a friend who was expecting. In the grace of God, it reminds us:“He gives and takes away, blessed be the Name of the Lord”. It is the ebb and flow of life. Joyful thanksgiving followed by trusting and mourning.
Here is the reality: life goes on, duties are carried out, ministry and missions continue, healing begins, faith is stretched and grows. I preached Saturday night for Edgewood Baptist Church in Walterboro. It was their homecoming weekend. It was good to visit the place we started our ministry 37 years ago. Then we had our Sunday services and responsibilities. It made for a long, emotion filled weekend.
I thought I could make it…keep a stiff upper lip, press through and deal with the emotions later. Janie and I planned to take a motorcycle ride and spend time over a cup of Starbucks. I didn’t quite make it. Sunday morning was a tough time for me emotionally. Thankfully, our church family is a safe place to grieve and hurt. It is a place of comfort and hope. There is a ready line of brothers and sisters willing to give a hug, say a prayer and share a tear. Put a wounded heart that is mourning in that setting and God will bring comfort.
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. We do believe Romans 8:28. We absolutely believe God is good all the time and all the time God is good. And I do believe “blessed are those who mourn, they will be comforted.” Our family loves you and thanks you for your love and prayers.
See you Sunday, good Lord willing.
Pastor Tom
