Gifts of Grace

What happens to those parents that lose a child? Grief can be defined in some ways. Grief (to me and so many) can be defined as an all consuming, relentless foe that leaves those left behind (parents) in a constant state of turmoil, trepidation, fear, loss of a sense of self, worry and absolute, constant heartache. As we glance into the life of Adam, Anna and Abel, we find an American family that we can relate to, we can share the same experiences with and understand the true significance of those small yet most grand moments in life that so very often truly define what a good and beautiful life is and can be. As each parent (Adam and Anna) struggles to cope with their loss; their burdens are borne and culminated with self effacing and self destructive behaviors that ultimately collide with the spoken promises of Jesus,resulting in a raging, and at times; devastating war, challenging each of their own beliefs and sanity. Any and all parents can understand, sympathize, and relate to exactly what the loss of a child can and will do to the very heart of a Mother or Father. For those that profess to be Christians, we all understand that we are promised an eternal life, a reunion with those that have left us far too soon. For as Jesus said..."This is what my Father wants: that anyone who sees the Son and trusts who He is and what He does and then aligns with Him will enter real life, eternal life." (John 6:40 MSG) We, as Christians know and profess His promises within our own life, but with the loss of a child, how do we reconcile these promises? How do we hold, believe, and affirm these promises given to us by our Lord, Jesus Christ. We each are given so many wonderful gifts from our Father; but specifically let's look at the gifts of; love, grace, hope, and reassurance. Of course, ultimately it is absolute love (a parent's love, a sister/brother's love, a grandparents love) that is the most precious of these for without these loves; grace, hope and reassurance cannot be given, received or shared. All of these gifts abound within this story and it is my hope that throughout the course of this story, that the very true definition of love is shown, manifested and given to those in great measure, that may need this, currently within their own lives. It's just that simple...He loved us before we were ever formed within our Mother's body. Do I, personally believe that Jesus cares about each and every detail of our life? Most certainly He does! I do not only believe this because of the words written within the Bible, no, I believe this because I have seen and felt His most powerful presence within my own life; yes and even within the most darkest moments of my life! He is most faithful, most compassionate, most loving and we are incredibly blessed to have, to know and to love Him!