House of Mourning

It is better to go to a house of mourning
Than to go to a house of feasting,
Because that is the end of every man,
And the living takes it to heart.

Ecclesiastes 7:2

Last night at church we received word that a friend to many in our church body was being taken off life support following injuries sustained during a farming accident. She was a wife and mother, and had just become a grandmother for the second time last week. We rejoice for her. She had trusted Christ to cover her sins,and we know she is with Him now. We ache for the family, however, and have only found peace in lifting them to their Father in prayer, knowing that He will give comfort and strength.

One thing I remember about this lady is a testimony she gave at church several years ago during our Thanksgiving service. They had been dealing with a heart condition in their daughter, which had made their days uncertain and, I'm sure, frightening. I don't remember the scripture she shared, but I remember being so encouraged by the fact that God had proven Himself faithful to them during their time of anxiety and trial. She spoke of His goodness and care... the same thing He will, no doubt, show to their family again.

Anyway, today life just seemed a little sweeter, and the busy-ness of all the holiday preparations didn't seem like such a distraction. We are given precious time to do the work God has prepared for us. There's nothing like a visit to the house of mourning to remind us.