The Cross at Christmas

My Mom.  

Still so young.  But still dying.  

No more chemo.  Relentless tumours.  Way more pain.  No appetite.

We're trying to find a pain medication that agrees with her body chemistry.

We were stretched out on her bed -- she spends increasing amounts of time in her bed -- 

this morning,  devo's was a rendering of Psalm 103... 

O my soul, bless God, don't forget a single blessing!  

He forgives your sins - every one.  

He heals your diseases - every one.  

(we smile at each other when I read this)

He redeems you from hell - saves your life!

He crowns you with love and mercy - a paradise crown.

(she's wearing it)

He wraps you in goodness - beauty eternal.

(she's beautiful alright)

He renews your youth - you're always young in his presence.

God makes everything come out right;

We have been very busy getting the proverbial 'house in order' - thankful for the time and ability to see this through and cope with the myriad emotions that wash over us.

We are praying to be able to enjoy each others company yet on Christmas Day 

when the whole shebang will be present.  

You have been praying haven't you?  

We are very thankful for this and ask that you continue to do so.

The final scene in John Bunyan's classic The Pilgrim's Progress shows Christian crossing the river to the celestial city.  Strong and mighty arms pull him up from his watery grave and embrace him with vigour, welcoming him into a splendour beyond description.  

To help someone prepare for such a crossing is....frightening, yes.  But less so now.

It's more like privilege.

And a very profound one at that.  

Almost a year in the making - our community project Great Hymns of Faith & Other Favourites is finally available.  It continues to be a great balm for a weary soul.

We missed the kafuffle over the moon.  

The way I see it?....we've had our fair share of amazing 'God displays' in different ways.

Imagine what a lunar eclipse would look like from His vantage point?