May I have this dance?

Though I just arrived in Bolivia, being away from home is becoming very real. I received news that my sweet Grandmother went home to be with her Lord and Savior yesterday afternoon. The odd mixture of emotions which followed my taking it all in included a bit of tears, then laughter, then jealousy, then peace.

As a child, my Grandma Margie wrote me a letter one day which said she would pray Jeremiah 29:11 over my life each day "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord...." As I grew in my relationship with Christ, this verse began to fill our conversations, our written correspondence, and our prayers for each other. Yet, I know this verse was just a drop of the flood of wisdom she has poured into my life through so many years.

A grandmother, mother, wife, sister, friend, musician, counselor, worshiper, peacemaker, prayer warrior...the list could go on. She lived out all these things as a precious follower of Jesus Christ. I cherish the moments I was able to sit with her and be challenged by who she had become.

Last Thanksgiving she spent time with our family in Jacksonville. As I was walking through a season of   uncertainty and struggle myself, she joyously shared with me a few books by Ken Gire. As she was reading along, I remember how the metaphor of the "the dance" resonated with her. As a musician, she recognized the importance of melody, harmony, and rhythm. The picture which Gire paints is the moment our Maker invites us to dance. With fear and trepidation, we might decline. Or we might say "Yes." My grandmother said "Yes," and decided to follow Him with her whole heart.

As she danced with the Lord throughout her life journey, she enjoyed the pleasant moments when the orchestra united and played with joy. With a wonderful husband, children, and grandchildren, she witnessed sweet births, sweet discipleship, and sweet ministry across the world. In the moments of uncertainty, when the rhythm did not sound as natural... when her first son lived a life of many limitations, when she and Joe met struggles in their ministry, or when the love of her life left to be with the Lord before her, she faithfully looked to the eyes of Christ. He said, "Trust me during this new song, when the cadence brings change, and let me lead."

Yesterday afternoon, I believe the song changed once more. This time, she danced with Jesus into the throne room and the orchestra was in more unity than ever. The melody was strong with multiple harmonies to complement. Her step was lighter, her breathing full, and her trust in her Bridegroom...perfect. And so...she dances today, loving every bit of the music of eternity. She sings and dances to her heaven song. And this is only the beginning...

Grandma, I live today to share the love of Jesus Christ with one more person...that more and more will join us in heaven together when the Bride of Christ is invited home. I love you!