This past week I read a friend’s post on Facebook about a loss they had a few years back. They summed up something so beautifully that I want to write about it here. The statement was made that while there are no replacements or reasons for their loss…there is redemption.
Friends…that is what I’ve tried to write about on this blog. It’s why the title of this blog is Love’s Redeeming Story.
Dane and I are each coming up on another spring season when we remember our losses. For Dane…March 10. For me…May 5. These dates never just go by without us noticing or caring. They will be forever etched in our memories. I wouldn’t want it any other way.
There is no need to replace the places that Barb and Mark held in our hearts. And as far as reasons…no reason would really be good enough. But…there is beautiful, sweet redemption.
I know that the love Dane and I share is one of a kind. I know it to the depths of my soul. And in large part it’s because of loss.
Yesterday Dane was looking at a kindergarten picture of me that I have framed right beside a kindergarten picture of him and he said, “You know Ruth…I never knew that little girl, but even then, even when I was that little boy, God knew all about you and how we would end up together and how much I would love you.” Sometimes it’s strange to think about how our past, present and future all work, but he’s right.
Nothing takes God by surprise. I take great comfort in this truth.
Ultimately God is always, actively working for my good. My love and intentions are never that perfect, even for those who are dearest to me.
I remember after Mark died often thinking about God as my Redeemer. I was familiar with God as my Father or Jesus as my Friend, but had never given much thought to Him being my Redeemer. I guess I didn’t need to until my life was at a point where it was messed up enough to need redeeming. Or at least for me to realize it needed redeeming. Ultimately, I know this refers to salvation…but I believe that it also crosses over to all areas of our lives.
God doesn’t just save me…He doesn’t just initiate a relationship with me…He redeems every blessed moment, every loss, every change, everything.
I am living proof. That’s why I write. Not because life is perfect and rosy, but because I know God and I’ve seen how He redeems the stuff that is terrible. I am not special in this regard. He does this for everyone who trusts in Him.
Barb will never be replaced. She doesn’t need to be. Mark will never be replaced. He doesn’t need to be. We will always honor the past and hold dear the years we each enjoyed together.
But today…I rejoice in the reality that God has redeemed my life. Every day is worshipful to me. I can’t help but praise God and thank Him for what He has done. He has given me great joy. He has given me peace that passes understanding. He has given me hope for the future but also for today. He has given me love…He has brought Dane and I together.
All I can do is say thank you.