Dear Precious Parent: Sometimes I have dreams when I sleep, but after I wake up, I usually don't remember what the dream was about. This year, on January 31 that happened. The only thing I remember about my dream is that it was about my sister Robin and it was her birthday; however she went to be with Jesus January 26, 2004. Robin died unexpectedly of a massive heart attack. I can't believe it has been six years since we were together. Robin and Rosie, our other sister, lived in Las Vegas (LV). Every couple of years I would fly to LV to visit Robin, Rosie and my nephew, Ed (Rosie's son). I would purchase one of those week-end special tickets. We would just hang out for a couple of days, talk and laugh almost nonstop, and then I'd fly back to Oklahoma. But that time, I didn't just stay for the weekend, I stayed for ten days. I arrived in LV on Monday, January 12 and stayed until Thursday, January 22. We had so much fun. God was so good to me and blessed me with these special ten days with Robin. I did not know that when I hugged and kissed Robin bye, that four days later she would be gone. Four days! Life is short. Life is unpredictable. In James 4:14b it reads, "...your life is like the morning fog--it's here a little while, then it's gone." But what happens next? According to John 3:16, "...all who believe in Him (God's Son, Jesus) shall not perish but have everlasting life." The last time Robin and I were together we talked a lot about Jesus. We read a devotional together and prayed together. I have no doubt that I will see here again on the other side! To this day I still miss Robin, but because she believed and was "saved" I have peace knowing that I will see her again.
The most important decision a person will ever make is the answer to this question, "What will you do with Jesus?" In the scriptures, Jesus is portrayed as a Bridegroom and the Church as His Bride. Keeping that picture in mind I ask you, "Have you taken Jesus to be your Lord, to love Him, and honor Him, to cherish Him, serve Him, and live for Him all the days of your life?" Jesus lived a holy life for you and me. He died in our place on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. He rose from the dead, conquering death, and gives us eternal life. Jesus is coming again to take His Bride to be with Him forever. Have you said, "I do" to Jesus? Have you made that vow? I pray that you have. But if you have not, please don't put it off another day. Today is the day of salvation. Several years ago, I wrote a song to the Lover of my soul. Happy Valentine's Day Jesus!
It is my prayer that you do not settle for anything less than the plan God has for your life! Precious parent, that leads me to our children. We have a powerful effect on our families--through our life and our prayers. There is one thing I have to say to Rex, Lanie, Luke, Angela and my three grandchildren: Beaux, Isabella, and Elizabeth, "Be there on the other side!" Let us be faithful in praying for the salvation and the spiritual growth of our families, friends, children (and if you're a grandparent) grandchildren. The Scripture Prayer Calendar below is a tool to help.* Don't think that your prayers are in vain or a waste of time; they are not. According to James 5:16b, "The prayer of a righteous person (MOM an DAD) is powerful and effective." Jesus my Bridegroom--Hallelujah what a Savior!
|
VIDEO LINK: