Lamentations 3:22-26 (NKJV)
22 Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. 24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I hope in Him!” 25 The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him. 26 It is good that one should hope and wait quietly For the salvation of the Lord.
Today, I lament. I lost my Mom at 11:00 am. She had pneumonia and was in the hospital for a few days. The staff thought she was getting better and this was a shock. I didn’t get to say goodbye. According to the nurses, her heart slowed and slowed until it stopped. It seemed as Mom has had enough. She did not seem to have her usual spark. If you knew Trudy, you know the spark I mean. If you didn’t know her, I am sorry for your loss. They say pneumonia is the friend of the elderly.
Trudy was feisty and bold! Trudy was larger than life. Everyone knew her! Sound familiar? Let’s talk about that. Who was it that taught me to care about people? Who was it that taught me to notice people so you can care about them? Mom used to take me to bring groceries to the Rosenbaums because they could not shop for themselves. My Mom called people if she hadn’t seen them for a while to make sure they were alright. Mom said I’ll send the kid over. Many people offer charity. Mom got her hands dirty doing the work. Praise God she taught me some wonderful things.
My Mom and I never got along well but she sure did teach me a lot of things. She was like sandpaper, rubbing off all my rough edges and I didn’t like it at the time. She knew how to push each and every button I have. She even pushed buttons I didn’t know existed. Sometimes, she said some very hurtful things and we would stop talking for a while. I needed a cooling off period. But she made me the man I am today. I like what she’s done with the place. It is comfortable, warm and friendly. Many people feel safe and loved in the presence Trudy has created in her youngest son. Or at least, so they say. Parents plant seeds in their children. I like the garden Trudy has planted. God has given the increase. May He continue to mold me more to His liking and Trudy’s pleasure. She is gone but not forgotten.
A friend asked if there is anything he could do. My response is Smile! What is God saying to Trudy now? Well done thou good and faithful servant. I asked you to raise the next generation sharing my love and compassion and you have done well. She taught me to value others. She taught me to love and care for people. She taught me it was my job to care and how and why to do it.
It is my loss that troubles me now. Right now, it’s all about me and what I am feeling. Trudy forget to clean out the selfishness before she left. I don’t mind telling you, I feel bad! However, I do not grieve as one who has no hope. But this too shall pass. Also, I am concerned about Mom’s future. I am not sure of her salvation since, to the best of my knowledge, she has not accepted Christ. So I went looking in the Old Testament for comfort. I want Mom to be with my Dad who adores her. I also want her to be there waiting for me (selfish again) so we can pick up the argument where we left off. I want to know she is well and, maybe, finally happy. Years ago, a friend shared something with me. It was her belief that Jesus comes to each of us at the time of our passing giving us one last chance to go with Him. Glorious Father, have mercy on my Mom and show her Your salvation. Ask her one more time. Father, Your word says Your compassions fail not and Your faithfulness is great. I put my hope and trust in You. I thank You that You are caring for my beloved Trudy! Into Your hands I commend her spirit. Amen!