Dear God, why does everyone have to die? One by one, we leave this world cold and those left standing feel abandoned, depressed, hurt, and angry. We know that you understand deep emotion. After all, you lost your only Son…and that son wept at the grave of his friend. We believe you mourn with us. Yes, our final enemy wields a cruel stinger but you took the sting out of death for Uncle Raymond (“Rip”). You called him quietly in his sleep; he passed unexpectedly, without suffering. Thank you, Father, for your mercy, even in his final breath. We grieve but he rejoices, celebrating in your presence today; reunited with his wife, son, and sisters. He fell asleep in mysterious darkness and woke to a glorious morning!
breath of life recalled
death comes as thief in the night
sun will rise again

Raymond (right) died in early morning of brother Willis’ 90th birthday (8-18-18)
Apr 24, 2019 @ 06:51:23
Death is so sad – always, but we know that death is a defeated foe. I think the worst thing about death is the time us living have to wait before we see our loved ones again. The hope is we will see them again. Thank Jesus for that.
Apr 24, 2019 @ 18:39:05
Yes, he gives us hope!
Sep 07, 2018 @ 18:01:22
Powerful words of faith. An interesting response to the prompt as well, writing a prayer as the prose.
Sep 07, 2018 @ 19:18:45
I had written notes earlier…came out as a haibun and fit the morning theme!
Sep 07, 2018 @ 17:29:24
Rest in peace. May his family find peace and comfort in the Lord’s words. Have a good weekend Lynn.
Sep 07, 2018 @ 19:18:01
You too, Grace!
Sep 06, 2018 @ 08:23:07
Nice sentence of affirmation in the face of death: “Thank you, Father, for your mercy, even in his final breath.”
Sep 06, 2018 @ 08:41:21
Thank you, Frank…God is gracious.