See You Later, Daniel

 

Recently I had to relinquish a friend to his heavenly abode.  I have known him over thirty years.  I have daily prayed for his healing for most of those years.  You see, he was disabled, unable to walk, or talk.  We rarely saw each other, but we were friends, just the same.  His life was hard.  He had many physical limitations, as well as intellectual challenges.  Yet he did his best to fulfill the purpose God had for his life.  I have no doubt he is responsible for pointing the way to Jesus for many.  His life on this earth was short, but it was not a waste.  It was exactly as God planned it to be.  Like you and I his days were planned by a loving heavenly Father long before he took his first breath.  He did not have to fight all the distractions we live with.  He just lived as God had made him to live. I will miss him, I rejoice with him today because he is now completely healed.  No more limitations. He lives with Jesus.  I am so thrilled for you, Daniel!

Thanks!

 

This week a young friend of mine had a birthday.  He turned three! He and I were both adopted into missionary families so we could find Jesus.  I sent him a greeting online. I admonished him to love Jesus with all he has.  I was completely surprised to get video reply.  There was his cute face and his shy reply, “thanks Jeffrey.”  I watched that over and over letting the joy it brought flood my heart.  I would have loved to hug him and receive a hug in return, but that was impossible at the time.  I was a bit sad I could not see him in person to give my small greeting.  However, God did something more.  I have looked at that video several times.  Each time it warms my heart.  I am slowly learning to give thanks in everything.  You see, that is what God demands. 

 

When I obey that command my heart is at peace.  God changes me; He shifts my point of view and gives me His best.  So today I watched that video again, and it reminded me to thank God again.  Are you thanking God for everything?  I sure hope you are.