Last Friday, my sweet grandpa joined Jesus in eternity. I received the news here in Colombia about 15 hours after the fact due to lack of WiFi and my heart dropped. I couldn’t hold the tears in. The hardest part is that I can’t be there and he had a desire for me to sing at his funeral. Thankfully, I was with my host mama, Cristina as well as 2 of the girls I am doing ministry with this month. They encircled me and cried with me as I wept. That same night, when we returned to the house, we had a worship service and pastor William announced to the church and they all prayed for me and supported me. Little did I know I would have a community of believers around me who would support me so well only 3 days into my year of ministry.
As I began to fully process this loss, I realized it was going to be difficult. Not being with my family during a time like this isn’t easy. But I know the call the Lord has put on my life and I believe that my gramps would want me here. I have no regrets with my grandpa. We had a special relationship. We were always honest with each other even when it was difficult. He taught me how to not only be responsible but how to manage my finances. He loved well and he showed me what dedication is. Although he is gone from this earth, I know that his legacy will live on through his children, my cousins, my siblings and myself.
About a month ago, I took the opportunity to go visit my grandparents before I left. It was the best decision I have made in a very long time. I loved on them, prayed with and for them, and sang with my grandpa one last time. During my time there, the Lord told me it would be my last time to see him—so I cherished every moment I had. I was so thankful the Lord told me that so I wouldn’t take for granted any moment I had with him. As I left, I told my grandpa I would send him a letter before I left on the 4th. I sent my letter on 3rd and was confident that he received it before he went home on the 12th. God’s timing is perfect and I’m thankful He gave me the opportunity to be honest and loving to my grandfather before he passed.
I ask that during this time of grieving you pray for my heart and dealing with not being present in body, my family, and that the Lord would bring peace over every person who loved my grandpa—which was a lot. Thank you for your support and love through this difficult time.
Blessings
