God's Faithfulness in the Midst of Grief

What a whirlwind this summer has been.

Over the last few months, our family has experienced many blessings and opportunities. Our church hosted its first annual regional women's event in many years. I was honored to be accepted as the Western Region Women's Representative for our synod. We celebrated the exciting news that we were expecting baby number eight. I began taking classes at the seminary while continuing the joyful busyness of homeschooling, sports, and children’s activities. We also started a branch of our homeschool co-op in our hometown, beginning with a small group of families from our church.

Life was busy, full, and exciting.

Then, as fall ministries began, our world changed in an instant. Just one week ago, our precious baby entered the arms of Jesus before we ever had the opportunity to hold him in ours.

The days since have been filled with grief, tears, questions, and moments of quiet reflection. We are taking each day one step at a time as we process this loss. Though our hearts are hurting, I can honestly say that God has been faithful.

In the midst of our sorrow, I have felt His presence in a way that is difficult to describe. He has met me in my weakness with strength, in my sadness with comfort, and in my anxiety with peace. While I would never have chosen this path, I have experienced His love and care in profound ways during these difficult days.

As mothers, life does not stop when our hearts break. I still have seven precious children here at home who need their mom, and a husband whom I love and cherish. The days continue moving forward, even when grief makes time feel like it has stood still. Yet God has faithfully provided what I need for each day, sometimes for each moment.

This loss has also brought back memories of my first miscarriage nine years ago. I still grieve that baby. Loss leaves an imprint on a mother's heart that never fully disappears. Yet through the years, God has continually reminded me of His promises.

Today, my heart is with the women who have experienced miscarriage, infant loss, or the loss of a child at any age. This is a grief that many carry quietly. If that is part of your story too, please know you are not alone.

While I do not understand God's purposes in this moment, I trust His character. I cling to the hope that because of Christ, this goodbye is not forever. One day, by God's grace, we will be reunited with the children we never had the chance to raise on earth.

For now, I am grieving.

For now, I am trusting.

For now, I am resting in the truth that God is near to the brokenhearted.

And for now, that is enough.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18

My prayers are with every family walking through loss. May we all find comfort in the arms of our faithful Savior.