Friday, November 22, 2019

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SIERRA

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NLT)

On October 25th we celebrated Sierra’s 31st birthday. A group of us gathered at the bowling alley to enjoy food and fellowship—and bowl a few games. I have never been good at bowling, so I spent the evening chatting with friends and cheering for others who were strategically rolling balls down the shiny wooden floor. There were many strikes, spares, and of course a few gutter balls. It was an evening filled with fun, laughter, and memories . . . and a few tears.

Tears because someone we loved was missing from the party—Sierra. Sierra and two-year-old Nolan were taken from us along with Sierra’s unborn child the day after Father’s Day. As you can imagine, things haven’t been right since. Sometimes I think if Jesus were standing right beside me, I would drop to my knees, cling to his robe, and beg him to take me home along with those I love. Some days here on earth are just too hard to endure.

Isn’t that what Jesus is telling us in this scripture? In one breath He’s warning us to expect trials and sorrows, and in another He’s encouraging us to take heart because He has overcome the world. So I make room for both—joy and sorrow.
I trust in God’s truth, confident my future is secure in Him. I hope you do too.

Precious Lord, please comfort us in our time of sorrow and fill us with the joy that comes from knowing You. Grant us the courage to face the day confident in Your promises.
© 2019 Amy A. Verzi






1 comment:

Hopeful said...

This is beautiful Amy! Beautiful like you and your friendship with Lisa. Beautiful like the witness we have all had the privilege of seeing when you all cling to Jesus in unspeakable sorrow. Thank you for using your gift to bless us. You and Lisa and all are in my prayers so often. My heart cannot imagine the pain.. but my soul resonates true with the raw faith I have seen on display. God bless you all and give you peace.