Discuss Theology

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted”

Tragedy will come to us all, at some point in our life. This morning I have set out to record a tragedy, which has affected a good friend and his family. My only goal in this writing is to mourn with those who mourn.

One of the most gracious people I know is named Bob. Bob and his family have gone through a long string of deadly tragedies, both through violent actions and accidents. Not to mention physical sufferings and sickness. I have never seen, or heard of, so much misfortune, and heartbreak, in anyone’s life as with Bob and his family, excepting maybe Job and the biblical prophets.

Yet in the midst of all their suffering, they have maintained a faith unparalleled to any other person I know. The depth of love, which they pour out to others, is astounding. I, who have never gone through depth of their suffering and misfortune, can only marvel at their love and trust in God.

About 7 months ago my family was having dinner at Bob’s house when they told us they were going to have another baby, for which they had been praying for years (their daughters were now in their late teens). We cried tears of joy with them at God’s goodness and blessings. But during the pregnancy they were informed that the baby would have medical issues when she was born. Of course the doctors suggested they abort the little baby girl to save them the troubles to come.

Bob could not see abortion as a viable option. We talked over this decision one day and he told me that he would not step into God’s place in determining his little girl’s length of days. They were shaken by the news, but they would not loose their faith in God’s ability to heal or save.

As time got closer for the birth of Katie Grace they were given a continual string of prognosis, all of which was bad. They were told the baby would die upon birth.

On Tuesday Katie Grace was born. This 4 lbs bundle was delivered into the arms of her mother, father and sisters. For two hours the family had the joy of loving this little one. Joy and sorrow filled their soul as they watched her birth, held her and watched her slowly sink into death. All too soon she was gone, leaving only her memory and the hope of her resurrection.

Bob wrote, “We are all very grateful for the time we have been blessed to have with this little bundle of joy. We were literally surrounded by loving hands and prayerful hearts every step of the way. Mixed emotions linger as the day folds into night, but we still remain in awe of God’s presence in our lives and his glory and control that shines through the beginning of a new life.”

Bob and family have not wavered in their faith toward God. Though their loss is great, they are thankful for the short time they had with this precious jewel. Their deep faith will always be an inspiration to both those who know them and myself.

Bob and family…We love you.

God, thank you for Katie Grace and her life, which has brought so much joy to Bob and his family.
May You strengthen them and be with their every sorrow.
May You show them Your purposes for this little one.
May You draw them closer to Yourself.
And may you bring them to a joy unspeakable.
Use this tragedy for Your glory.
Blessed be the name of the Lord.