Keegan

What does the sudden death of a 14 year old boy do to those around him? It's unnatural, it's not supposed to happen, it's not what we expected, it's an unwelcome shock. But who are we mere mortals to question God's timing? It's easy (or easier) when we understand and believe in God's sovereignty, it's even easier when our friend, our brother, or our son is saved by his own confession of his dependence on Christ, by the blood of our saviour Jesus Christ. Is this grief for them, or is it simply our own? Why would we grieve for the death and rebirth of a saint, when we believe he is with our Father in his mansion with en-suite bedroom and a balcony over looking the biggest, most majestic mountain to be climbed and a new wilderness to be discovered? No, this is worthy of celebration, this is worthy of praise! The grief is ours, for our loss, for our emptiness and void and justified it is. The grief reminds us of the importance of that person in their own life time, the grief is proportionate to that individuals impact in other's lives.

The grief I see in those left behind reveals character.
When those who grieve shed a tear, I am aware of love, affection, compassion and an unselfish disposition.
When those who grieve laugh, I am aware of joy, a sense of humour and love for life.
When those who grieve tell stories, I am aware of a life lived with zest, full of experiences, adventure and a passion for living life to it's full potential. I am reminded to live each day to it's full and to enjoy every breath I breathe.
When those who grieve glow with pride, I am aware of accomplishments, perseverance and hard work.
When those who grieve embrace each other, I am aware of family, of support, of loyalty and unconditional love.
When those who grieve are strong, I am aware of "a peace that transcends all understanding", of trust and faith and gratitude.
When those who grieve carry on, I am aware of a life lived for Christ and a life shed with gain, to God's glory.
When those who grieve tremble, I am aware that life is fragile, life is brief and time with loved ones is valuable.
When those who grieve smile, I am aware of tenderness, sensitivity and discernment.
When those who grieve pause, I am aware of intimacy, personal attention, and kindness.

Keegan, I know you better now than ever before because of the mark you left behind in all those who grieve their certain untimely loss.