What He Has Gained

The bell tolls.

It's been more than 20 years since I have heard that sound.

It stirs the memories held deep.

The 4 months I lived across the street.

When time was measured by the toll of the bell.

The hour. The half.

It seems like a life time ago.

All my future still before me.

Young, innocent.

My walk with God was different then.

He was all I had.

There were few distractions.

Much time spent in prayer.

Though the richness and depth came with time.

As I turn the corner the tolls end.

I can feel the companion of sadness and loss begin to permeate.

It is still hard to think clearly.

Every thought turns to Elijah and what I have lost.

I miss him so much.

I begin my thankful prayers.

Lord, I am grateful for:

The memory reminded by the tolling bell.

Being there at the right moment to hear.

This van and all that gave so we could have.

I pull into our driveway and I continue the praise.
I am grateful for the folks who raked.

The yard looks so nice.

A relief from all the other pieces that need to be done.
My heart feels lighter.

I breathe deep.

I find rest in God alone.

He is my refuge and my strength.

Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

Today I will rest in what Elijah has gained.

The joy he is experiencing.

Isn't that what we each want for our children?

We want them to grow in the likeness of a Holy God.

We want them to be all they can be in Christ.

For their lives to reflect the deep joy known through a relationship with Christ.

He has attained that.

He is with God.
He is complete.