I’m tired of attending funerals. Tired of seeing tears. Weary of seeing broken hearts. It seems this is becoming the new normal around here.
We attended our fourth funeral in two months—one a week for three weeks and one the month prior. As we walked through the receiving line, I said to my husband, “What will she do? They’re attached at the hip. I worry about her well-being now that he’s gone.”
I felt the emotion rise in my throat. These funerals were getting to me, especially since my Prince is fighting cancer. The reality of what could be our future choked me.
Our friend was comforted because she knew the love of her life was safe in God’s arms, snuggled tightly against His heart. She comforted us for the pathway she knew we were about to walk. I couldn’t utter a word. My tight lips held back a flood of tears.
I know where our Valentine’s Day will be spent. In a hospital room at Vanderbilt. I dread it. Between facing this path for Tim—not to mention all the funerals we’ve attended—my heart aches. The thoughts of celebrating a day for hearts and love, just seems … wrong.
If ever anyone could cry out to God with such passion, David could. Even at a young age, his writings prove his sensitivity and compassion toward the Lord of All. David was gifted with a gentle heart and the ability to verbalize it to God. In his trials, frustrations, and fear, he trusted his heart to God, soaking in the strength to move ahead. God never failed him, and He never fails us. He promises He is our strength. Our fortress. Our refuge. David knew this and believed. Honestly, I know this as well.
We know God is the strength of our hearts and that His love is unending. All we have to do is reach out and grasp hold. Imagine the healthy portion of His love that awaits us.
On this Valentine’s Day, be grateful for the love of your heart. Love your husband, your children, your parents, but more so, love the strength and portion of God. His love is pure joy. It’s there for the taking … and waiting for you. Partake.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)
Cindy K. Sproles is a best-selling, award-winning author. She is a speaker and a conference teacher who teaches nationwide. Cindy is the cofounder of Christian Devotions Ministries, www.christiandevotions.us, and www.inspireafire.com. She serves as a writing mentor with WRAMS (Writing Write Author Mentoring Service) and is the director of the Asheville Christian Writers Conference. Visit Cindy at www.cindysproles.com.