“To proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor…to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor.” Isaiah 61:2-3

Grieving Well

Many of you are asking how I’m doing. Thank you for caring. I think I’m doing good. The tears flow in waves, but they are tender tears and bring healing. I have carried so much the last five years, so in some ways I feel a bit lighter. It seems strange not to be praying for Floyd. I prayed for him often through each day. It feels like a “gap” there now. I’m filling it by praying for others.

This week was our anniversary. I wondered if it would be a sad day, but it wasn’t. It was a tender, sweet day. The sun was shining, and it was warmer than usual, especially for June. I watched a sailboat on the bay. My son brought me a special lunch, and we went for a little drive. I had a 2-hour chat with my daughter. A dear friend brought me a double wick candle. I loved the symbolism of that. It was a gentle day.

All through the day, I gave Jesus messages for Floyd. I’m grateful for our 54 years together. God has been good to us—we’ve had a rich, fulfilling life. There have been some bumps in the road, but the journey has been blessed. I’m attaching some photos at the bottom of this update of “the beginning” in 1967.

The hospital informed me that they are keeping Floyd’s room empty for a time in his honor, and to allow the staff time to mourn. I was very touched by that gesture. They loved Floyd so much. I could not have managed without them.

I’m also very touched by all the comments, messages, emails, etc. One of my favorite things to teach on through the years has been the topic of encouragement. Words matter! Your words are bringing precious comfort and encouragement to my heart. So many have shared of Floyd’s impact on their life when he spoke somewhere in the world. I had the thought that it was worth every sacrifice of our family releasing Floyd to travel and speak. It was hard sometimes, but there is now beautiful, eternal fruit from that in many lives. What a blessing! Thank you for sharing what he meant to you.

YWAM in Holland did a zoom tribute last Sunday. All Nations International is doing a zoom tribute/prayer time on June 24th. Other events are in the planning. I’m blessed that Floyd is being loved and honored.

We are in the time of year when our days are very short. I often get up in the dark, and sit at the dining room table having breakfast. This morning as I was sitting there, suddenly brilliant sunshine flooded into the room as the sun rose over the mountains to the east. The light and warmth washed over me. It was so beautiful. I sensed the Lord saying to me that “sunshine” is coming for my heart, my soul, and my emotions too. I received the promise of that!

God is giving beauty for ashes in my heart—beautiful, rich oil of joy instead of mourning. He is faithful!

Bless You, Lord, for what You have done in Sally’s life. We give You thanks for giving her to us as an example of a life well-lived. Amen.