Fall's Reminder of Heaven's Hope
As I look out our window at Whitetail Lodge the multi-colored leaves remind me that Fall is in full bloom and that the beauties of summer are passing away to make way for the snows of winter.
The leaves are also a reminder of our daughter Mickey's death. Twenty-seven years ago today Judy and I along with our other two children, Jeremy and Jamie wept as Mickey took her last breath and left us for heaven's gates.
It was a day very much like today. Beautiful leaves on the trees. Sun shining. People racing about from place to place. But for our family, time stopped. The sun was clouded by tear-filled eyes. The next few days were filled with preparing for Mickey's funeral. We had to pick out a casket at the funeral home, decide what dress she should wear, etc. Our church family sprang into actions behind the scenes to make everything "just right" for the funeral service and luncheon afterward. Our sanctuary that seated 600 people was packed on the day of her funeral. But to be honest, all of those moments are a blur even now.
One of the songs at Mickey's funeral has been running through my head a lot these past couple of months. The chorus of the song reflects on heaven with these words, "Imagine stepping on shore, and finding it heaven. Of touching a hand, and finding it God's. Of breathing new air, and finding it celestial. Of waking up in Glory, and finding it home." That's what I think of as I walk through the forest and am in awe of the beauty of Fall's leaves. I try to imagine the beauty of heaven, and what my Mickey is doing now. It truly is Fall's reminder of Heaven's Hope. Can't wait to get there. But until then Mickey, know that mom and dad love you and look forward to seeing you again.
