Lots to think about for sure

Last evening was hard for me and “Ashlei”. Together we stood beside her grandpa’s bed as he slowly slipped away in the ICU room at our hospital. “Bob”, her grandpa, was only 67 years old – turning 68 next week.

Ashlei is 12 years old. She is bright and tender. She is struggling with the fact that her grandpa is leaving her and his 12 other grandkids. Her red eyes and wet cheeks told the story as I say with her.

I serve each month as an “On Call Chaplain” at the hospital. Last evening the telephone rang at 8:45 PM to go see Bob and his family.

I had prayed with her family and her grandpa. Then I sat with her and her grandma. These were tender moments – that are God timed.

I said it was hard for me also. There is a 3 year difference in our ages – Bob and me. Bob loved to fish – so do I. Bob was a writer and very creative in all that he did. Oh boy that is close to home.

I shared with the family last evening that this was very close to home for me – because there are too many similarities – far too many.

In a way it was like attending your own death – only you walk away – this time.

Sobering thoughts invade you at times like this. It helps you to focus again on today. What really is important NOW? What could be left undone and alone in favour of better things?

Lots to think about for sure.

I told Ashlei that I would pray for her everyday this week – every time I thought of her.

I am asking you to do the same for Ashlei and for Bob’s family. They need some love today and each other.

~ Pastor Murray Lincoln ~