Saturday, August 22, 2009

We Are a Vapor... For Ricki




Ricki's Mom and his brother AJ


Rarely, if ever do I sleep in. I don't think I know how. This morning, though, I was just pondering the fact that it was already 7:30 and I was hardly even up yet, and what to do with this Saturday-when the phone rang. It was one of "those calls" that you know will, in many ways, change, not only the course of the day, but many lives, as well.

It was my daughter Shawna calling to tell me that her brother-in-law (Ricki's younger brother) had been killed in an accident in the early morning hours. Shock and grief ushered in this day for Ricki's family. Eventually, the shock will settle into reality, but the grieving will hang around for a long time to come...this is life.

So, it is only natural, for me at least, that this event has caused me to ponder and consider the frailty of life. One of my favorite chorus says it so simply....

We are a moment You are forever
Lord of the ages God before time
We are a vapor You are eternal
Love everlasting reigning on high

Holy holy Lord God Almighty
Worthy is the Lamb Who was slain
Highest praises honor and glory
Be unto Your name
Be unto Your name

We are the broken You are the healer
Jesus Redeemer mighty to save
You are the love song we'll sing forever
Bowing before You blessing Your name
© 1998 Integrity's Hosanna! Music

We are a vapor...
We have no guarantee of time. This life is merely a prelude to eternity and I am reminded to make the most of each day, to count my blessings moment by moment, to continue to live knowing, with the Apostle Paul that, "To live is Christ and to die is gain."
We are the broken, You are the healer...
I pray that Ricki and Shawna and the rest of AJ's family and friends know and experience Your comfort and healing in the days to come. May a peace that passes all understanding transcend their loss and bring comfort to their souls.
Psalm 39:11
"...each man is but a breath."