He Was Taken Too Soon

It was a beautiful day yesterday. Too beautiful to attend a funeral but that is where I found myself with my teenage son, Carson. As we walked through the cemetery, there was a cool breeze that blew, yet not a sound to be heard. Even the birds were quiet.

Moments of silence.

Moments of respect.

As Carson took his place, next to his football teammates, my eyes were fixed on the casket while tears streamed down my face. A knot in my stomach grew to the point that I could barely breathe.


How does a thriving thirteen year old boy die in his sleep? 

Lord, why did you have to take Bennett from his family? He was so young and had such potential? 

As the American flag was taken off of Bennett's coffin and handed to his mother, she cradled it as her body gave way into uncontrollable sobs. Sobs that only a mother can birth. Sobs that will continue for months to come.

Last night, after saying prayers with Carson, I lingered by his bedside for a few extra minutes.

Carson, can I give you a hug?

Why, Mom?

Because I love you and because I can. Bennett's mom can't hug him tonight but I can hug you.

Carson smiled and gave me a one of those "thirteen year old hugs" that only a mom of a teenager can appreciate. As he pulled the covers over his shoulders and closed his eyes, my heart whispered...

Lord, life is so precious and fleeting. Never let me take a single moment for granted. 

***********

Question: Have you hugged your child or someone you love today? 

Life Lessons - Discouragement

UPDATE: Kristen Barkdull is the winner of last week's giveaway. Kristen, please send your mailing address to Leah@Proverbs31.org so that I can send you the signed copy of A Confident Heart.  


Are you feeling discouraged today? Maybe someone or a certain situation has failed to meet your expectations. Maybe life just isn't turning out the way you had planned.

I understand and that's why I'm launching my new video series with a short clip about Discouragement. We all experience it and when life throws us a heavy punch, we can be left feeling heavy-hearted, lonely and completely frustrated. Can you relate? 

I hope you enjoy the video and that it encourages you today! Be sure to leave a comment so that you're eligible for my giveaway. I have a SIGNED copy of Renee Swope's book, A Confident Heart that someone is going to win. Maybe that someone will be YOU!!

Well, it looks like the video cut off the last few seconds of my comments but no worries, you didn't miss anything real important.

Now for our action steps:

1. Log onto www.proverbs31.org and read today's Encouragement for Today devotional.

2. Encourage someone else today! When we pour words of encouragement into others, it will also encourage us.

3. Sign up for today's giveaway by leaving a comment below. I'd love to know what you thoughts about the video. And, I'd love for you to share one thing that you do when discouragement comes your way.

Today's giveaway: a signed copy of A Confident Heart by Renee Swope, I'll announce the winner on Monday.