I remember the first day we met Prema, the mother of our contact in Malaysia. She was translating Becky's sermon at church and began to silently cry. Afterwards, Becky talked to her, and said that Prema was moved to tears because the message was something she so needed to hear, and she was so thankful in that moment how sweetly the Lord spoke to her.
Prema fell in love when she was 15 years old with a man who was 18. Seven years later, their love was tested when Prema fell in love with the Lord. Her fiance saw the change and was hesistant. Prema knew though that her love for the Lord was real and great, so she gave her finace an ultimatum. Go with her to church, or they were over.
Thank the Lord, He chose her and the next year they were married. Shortly after they had their first son, Thomas (our pastor), followed by four more boys! Prema was so incredibly grateful for her husband- he not only took care of their family, but he also took care of her family. They raised their children to seek after God, and even started the church that Thomas now pastors.
Tragedy struck just last year when Prema's husband suddenly passed away. It just about broke Prema's heart. Life seemed incredibly lonely without the man she had loved since she was fifteen. But then one day, God spoke to her, "You cry for your husband, who was good and important, but imperfect. It was an earthly love." Prema was reminded that her love for the Lord was eternal and everlasting. She was reminded that first and foremost, she is the bride of God. His presence is always with her and so she is never alone.
I loved the few times we spent with beautiful Prema. She was encouraging and so full of love. There are still times when she misses her husband, but her heart for the Lord is great, and she know that God is her comforter.
