Grace Period
1:47 a.m. It’s just the Lord and me awake in this house, and I’m reflecting on everything that has transpired in our lives over the past several days. I’m trying to take in what I’m witnessing and struggling to know how to put it into words. I’ve never seen anything like this, and I want you to see it, too.
We are living in a grace period. Days where God is pouring out His grace and peace on us in our darkest times, yes, but more than that. Days where we are witnessing my dad being rewarded for a life of living out grace to so many who have had the privilege of crossing his path on this earth. It’s an amazing gift that God is giving him: to have time at the end of your life to see what your influence has meant to people.
As the news of my dad’s failing health has spread these past several days, we have been overwhelmed at the outpouring of love toward him, as person after person has shared their individual story of how his life has impacted theirs. People from all periods of his life, and from all over the world, many whose lives have been changed for eternity because he introduced them to Christ. This is what happens when a person truly lives like Jesus, and chooses every day to be guided by His Spirit.
He has lived a life of humility, never putting himself in the spotlight, always unassuming. That’s why he’s moved to tears as he reads your messages and hears you speak of your love for him. And as we watch these things unfold, we know what we witness. It’s a preview of his heavenly reward and a testimony of God’s promise in Luke 6:38. My friend gave me this verse, and I realized: this is exactly what’s happening.
“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”
He has been giving all of his life, and now you’re giving back to him.
I can’t believe how good God is to do this for us. How, in the midst of our most difficult days, we are experiencing His grace… in good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over.
If you’re not sure what itmeans to truly know Christ as your Saviour, please contact me. This is what my dad’s life is all about. I’m sharing all these moments with youbecause you should know that life can be full, andpeaceful, and rewarding if you know Christ.
Thank you somuch for your kind comments, support, and prayers for us. Every single one means so much to me and my family.
Michelle Mein
January 30, 2015 @ 1:43 pm
Praying for you and your family!
Michelle Mein
January 30, 2015 @ 1:43 pm
Praying for you and your family!
Michael Elkins
January 30, 2015 @ 1:47 pm
Thanks for sharing this Julie!
Nicole Lawson
January 30, 2015 @ 5:32 pm
Thanks Mrs. Julie. We are praying!
Tiffany Stalsworth
January 30, 2015 @ 10:34 pm
Dear Pastor Cross, thank you for vaptising me at the tender age of 8. Even though I was young when we attended, your words will always be in my heart. You have always been a hero to me. We love you and we are praying.
Tiffany Dilbert Stalsworth and Family
Pastor, you have touched so many lives including ours. Let us know if you need anything. Much love and prayers for you.
Jim and Robin Dilbert and family
Tiffany Stalsworth
January 30, 2015 @ 10:35 pm
Baptising*
Krystle
January 31, 2015 @ 2:18 am
Oh wow! What a powerful post! Your dad sounds like an amazing man. Praying for you and your family!
Jordyn Brown
January 31, 2015 @ 5:09 am
What a sweet post, I'm so sorry that you're having to go through this but thankful that you get to spend these special moments with your father. Praying for peace for your family in this time!
xoxo, SS
http://www.TheSouthernStylista.blogspot.com
Melinda G
February 1, 2015 @ 3:33 pm
A beautiful post to say the least. I am new follower of your blog and this post touched my heart.
http://madcraftingmama.blogspot.ca/
Christy @ 11 Magnolia Lane
February 2, 2015 @ 3:59 am
Praying that the blessings keep flowing during these precious days together!
Gail
February 3, 2015 @ 2:56 am
I remember your requesting prayer for him sometime ago. I know this must be such a difficult time, and I am so sorry. Please know that I will be praying for you, your dad and your family. God's grace is amazing and it's so wonderful to know that He is showering it on you.