We’ve had a busy week around here. VBS has kept us on an “early to bed, early to rise” kind of schedule – with lots of activity in between. And, I’d say we loved every moment of it!
I didn’t realize how much we did love it, until this afternoon. My sweet Emily, who normally is an introvert, came home sad. Sad that it was over. Sad that we wouldn’t be with all of our friends every day. Her usual response would be relief, happy to have her space.
I found myself trying to encourage her up and out of the dumps, and sitting on her bed, I said something like this, “Don’t you realize how lovely it is that you are sad?” and she frowned at me with those sad eyes, but I continued. “Last year this time we were praying you would find a friend – and here we are now: God has provided! Sure, you will miss them, but we can be grateful for those friends in the mean time, right?”
Even as those words escaped my lips, I knew the sentiments applied to other places in my life. See, my Grandpa Brubacher will be crossing over into eternity soon. Similarly to my daughter, I can’t seem to figure out just how I feel about it.
The truth is, I am the granddaughter of Reuben Brubacher and that is a treasure not many have been given. Being a part of his family is a gift for which I’m thankful – I can’t even really express it properly. But, I’ll try… He is a man who loves Jesus and served Him with everything he had. He loved his wife and family deeply. He knew God’s Word and he prayed more than anyone I know. He had a great sense of humor; I can hear his laugh ringing in my ears.
Many do not know the joy of having a grandpa, let alone one like mine. Alongside this grateful and joyful heart- there is also sadness knowing it must end for now. At first I struggled to resolve them – the joy and the sadness – but Ive decided maybe I should let them mingle together in my heart.
I’m trying to realize just how lovely it is to be sad about something so wonderful…
daily portion 