Monday, May 18, 2009

Dad's Journey is Beginning

We were called back to the hospital at 1 AM last night, and it seems that Dad's journey to heaven is near. We were blessed to spend his birthday with him yesterday, and we're taking turns, as much as possible, to be with him today. Dad's remaining time is still in God's hands, but it does appear that his life on earth is beginning to wind down and his start toward heaven is imminent.

Thank you for your continued prayers for him and for us. For specific prayer, we need to find a way to sleep, more than anything, in order to have the strength to support him and each other, and sleep has been in short supply with all of us these last few days. Pray for calm and peace and less trouble breathing for Dad, too. He still knows we're by his side--he still squeezes our hands once in a while.

It's hard to say good-bye, but when we know he is going to a city that knows no sorrow or pain, no tears or sadness, we can rejoice! That peace that passes understanding is here for us now...what a blessing and a promise!

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me–put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:4-9


5 comments:

Andrea said...

May our precious Heavenly Father supply your greatest needs: sleep, peace, calm, and the needs you are not even aware of. May He surround you with His loving arms and hold you tightly during this time.

Prayers and hugs, andrea

Yvonne Blake said...

(((Hugs))) What a sweet and sad thought...so glad you had yesterday with him as last memory.

Here's a link to a story I wrote for FW...thought it might be appropriate right now.

http://www.faithwriters.com/wc-article-level4.php?id=25710

Joanne Sher said...

Ohhh, sweetheart. You know we're praying. SO glad he's heading where he's heading!

Pat Guy said...

Praying Dee, I understand, and I understand about the need for sleep. My sisters and I stayed by my mom's side, sleeping only in the waiting room. Your dad will feel good soon. It's that promise that helped me - that my mom finally felt wonderful. Hugs my friend, big warm, loving hugs. Pat.

Patty Wysong said...

Oh, SweetDee! I've been praying for all of you, and will continue. Love you so!