Thanksgiving Day 2023

 Thanksgiving Day // Three weeks ago this morning, my mom took her final breath and woke up in the arms of Jesus. The days since have been full of learning new rhythms, finding new people to call on my way home from school, and clinging to the faithful nearness of our Good Shepherd. I miss her so much it feels suffocating, and yet at the same time, I could not be more happy for her.

Our family often reminds each other that Mom is having no bad days. Our Cracker-Barrel-catered Thanksgiving feast was scrumptious, but it doesn't even begin to compare to the feast she's been enjoying since she got there: the perfect amount of perfect flavors in the presence of a perfect God. How we long for the day when we all get to join them! 

As much as we will mourn today and in the many days to come, we can't neglect giving thanks --- 

1. We are so thankful for the family, friends, church family, co-workers, and community that surrounded us over the past several months. Your prayers, love, and steadfast support has moved us to love people better.

2. We are so thankful for the amazing medical team that took care of our mom -- doctors, nurses, oncologists, radiation specialists, paramedics, EMTs, firefighters, hospice nurses, and friends who became hospice nurses. I have an appreciation for those in the medical field like never before. 

3. We are so thankful for the home renovation team that transformed our house so we could get Mom up the ramp, through the door, and even in the shower! Although her home is much better now (no offense), the rest of us love being able to come relax in this new-and-improved refuge. Plus, a powerhouse team of landscapers has made frequent stops to make it look stunning. Thank you!

4. We are so thankful to be part of churches that preach the Gospel. It is such a joy to go to church on Sunday morning and be refreshed by the life-giving truth that Christ has saved us from our sins! What hope we have in this promise. 

5. We are so thankful for the faith of our amazing mom. I just read yesterday that "seeing the steady advance of a soul unafraid to die is one of the most privileged sights you can have." As hard as it has been for us to endure this valley, watching Mom p
eacefully pass from groaning to glory is a powerful reminder of who Christ is and what He has done -- no guilt in life, no fear in death! THIS is the power of Christ in us!

So sad, and yet so thankful. I'm convinced you can be both. Happy Thanksgiving! <3 

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