If you are reading this, chances are you know that life has dealt my family a difficult circumstance. Actually, life hasn't dealt it, God has allowed it. My mom was recently diagnosed with Stage IV cancer and it is terminal. This has been hard, but in typical Harriet fashion, she has met the challenge with grace, dignity, humor, incredible strength and a good dose of humor. I love my Mom for so many reasons, but her pragmatic approach to life is is right up there as one of my favorites. As I was sitting on her bed chatting the other day - which can I shout out to the Lord that I GET to have these moments with her!! - and asked the question, "You say that you've learned more heart knowledge in the last 20 years about your walk with Jesus, so what exactly is the best lesson you've learned?"
Without missing a beat, she said, "Extending forgiveness". She went on to share that when she heard the diagnosis it really put what was important into immediate perspective. The things that she was holding on to out of worry, control, pride, etc. as she is facing her transition from this life into one present with Jesus just doesn't matter. She's let it go. I can attest to the fact that she has because her peace is radiant. We talked much about how we attempt to live a life like that all of the time and found that we didn't come up with answers that concretely answer those questions, but we concurred that much of it hinges on forgiveness and grace. My inner circle has this mantra we say when frustrated with seasons of life where we can't get our collective selves together... we need grace, grace, grace! So, I started to applying it to various circumstances around me..
.... when I see the marked differences in the way my siblings and I face this trial, I am reminded that we all grieve differently and need grace, grace, grace.
.... when someone with whom I've had a complicated relationship with reaches out to offer support and kindness, the forgiveness is immediate because why I was angry just isn't important in the light of eternity.
.... when I disagree with someones personal choice, grace, grace grace. How do I know this isn't God's best for them?
.... when I find myself hurt because I think someone should be reaching out... grace, grace, grace - I may have no idea what their current situation is or maybe they simply don't know what to say.
I pray that I will always remember this sweet conversation with my Mama, but more importantly, I hope I will consistently live out the lesson that the Lord allowed her to teach me!
Hebrews 4:16 - Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
