Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the Light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. ~John 8:12
December 2024
Greetings of love and peace to you this Christmas season! As I sit down to write, the only thought that comes to mind is the loss of my Mom this past year. Any other thoughts seem to be centered around that, or else a blur of adjusting or sustaining. Most of you likely know her story, but I’ll recap quickly for those who don’t, sharing my own perspective. My other family members each have their own story as well, which is just as valid, but each of us has our own story to tell. So today you get mine!
The year started out for me with a prayer of deliverance in general terms. I didn’t exactly know what this meant, but it just seemed that all of us are in some sort of bondage. Whether that was health limitations, binding thought patterns or habits, relationship or financial struggles, or whatever; we all suffer in some way or another in this earthly life. The Psalms are full of prayers of deliverance, so I added mine to the list.
Fast forward to April, when Mom was diagnosed with a stage IV 8x10cm cancerous liver tumor blocking the drainage ducts from her liver. We headed up to Alberta as a family to be there with her and Dad, and watch and wait to see how things unfolded. As they did, our extended family was able to stagger their visits to spend May and June at home with her, and then in July it was deemed time for hospice. She went to a beautiful hospice center where she was lovingly cared for that last month. She passed away July 24. Greg and I and kids drove the next trip up there for the funeral on Aug 6. (the day after what would have been her 74th birthday) All in all, I spent 6 weeks up there this spring and summer as I flew by myself 2 times as well.
It was then I realized that my prayer was answered. Mom was given deliverance from this world. It was not the way I anticipated nor expected, but her earthly concerns are all gone. She is free from the bondage that we all are left to grapple with. What a joy for her, but now what an empty spot we are all left to adjust to, especially Dad. Her goal is reached, her race has been run. (2 Timothy 4:7-8)
All fall we’ve spent catching up. Time doesn’t stop for things like this as you likely know. We appreciate all those who have reached out in love and care, and given grace for the ups and downs.
So, as I close, I wish you all the best in the coming year. I’m praying for whatever drags you down; that you may be given abundance, hope and life from the Light of the World who is Jesus, whose birth we celebrate now at Christmas. PS. If you want to know what our kids are all up to, just pull out your last years letter from me and reread it. It’s pretty much still all the same. Wash, rinse, repeat!
Love, Rachel and all
