Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12
Trials, afflictions, and suffering are no strangers to the one whose identity is found in Christ. Scripture is clear. We will experience them. They should not catch us off guard. When our faith is deeply rooted in Christ and the truth of scripture, we have great hope and assurance even in the gravest of situations.
There is an undeniable realness to grief. But, in our sorrow and grief, God is there to carry us through. We must choose to believe that He is working all things together for good even in our darkest moments. He knows our grief more intimately than we can imagine.
Thatcher
and Amy know well the meaning of "counting it all joy when you meet
trials of various kinds." They have a story to tell. As their hearts
were breaking, knowing that upon the birth of their son James Daniel,
God was mending James' broken heart that could not beat this side of
heaven. Thatcher and Amy's hearts will be forever changed because they
know that joy comes in the morning. As the sun rose over the horizon
that morning God took James to glory where his heart is beating. Meet my
niece and nephew-in-law Amy and Thatcher. You will be blessed.
My First Christmas in
Heaven
It’s my first Christmas up in heaven, I’m right by Jesus’ side
My heart has been made whole and with the Lord I now abide.
For He who holds the world, also holds my tiny hand
I’m safe in Jesus’ presence and it’s gloriously grand!
Perhaps you’ve heard my story, perhaps you’ve even prayed
God formed me in my mother’s womb and by Him I was made.
Then shortly after I was born, God gently called me home
My heart was meant to beat for Him – for God and God alone.
Though my time on earth was brief, my family cuddled me in love
We made some special memories that are gifts from God above.
Even Joy sweetly held me as I opened up my eyes
And I told her that I loved her in between my little cries.
My “journey of the heart” was written long ago
God knew before I was conceived to Him I soon would go.
He had a different plan – a different purpose all along
I fulfilled my mission on the earth – with Jesus I belong.
Things look different up in heaven, the perspective is more clear
I can see what’s really real, so don’t shed for me a tear.
There is more to this life than what you see with your two eyes
God has made a home for us beyond the big blue skies.
His ways are truly awesome – I can see His plan unfold
Eternity is real – so be steadfast, brave, and bold!
There is no better way to live your life on earth
Than to spend it all for Jesus – which has eternal worth.
For when He comes again or you meet Him face to face
You’ll kneel in rapt attention at His holiness and grace.
Having touched the earth and left it – I can truly testify
There is a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy.
While I wish that I could hug you and tell you that I care
Please accept a Christmas blessing through a simple little prayer,
“Lord, use my ‘broken’ heart as a vessel Your light shines through
I want to tell the world down there that ‘God loves you!’”
Love from heaven,
James Daniel
"Blessed are those who dwell in Your house; they are ever praising You."
"Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere."
Psalm 84:4, 10a
"Blessed are those who dwell in Your house; they are ever praising You."
"Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere."
Psalm 84:4, 10a
