The Christmas Gift

This Christmas season was different...very different. I haven't posted in a very long time, I can make excuses and tell stories about my absence, but the story I want to tell today, is the story of the most incredible gift Ive ever received. It didn't come in a box, nor was it wrapped in pretty paper and it didn't have any outward appearance of a gift at all...because...my gift was unseen by the human eye. I received the gift of the Holy Spirit working through me to be with my friend, Danna, during the final days of her life here on earth. To some people this may not sound like a gift, but a terribly sad way to spend the "holidays". Believe me when I say that while I was not happy to see my friend in pain, physically and spiritually, I would not have wanted to be anywhere else on earth. It was an honor and a privilege to be with her. To not watch her struggle, but to struggle with her about really tough, end of life questions. To help make real to her the fact that Jesus loves her more than anyone here on earth and that it was ok to stop fighting. It was ok to fully surrender, body, mind and soul to Jesus. To walk along side her during this final journey. I was taught so much during this period of time. I understand now, this journey that God has had me on for the last several years. My last post talked of darkness, Ive come to understand that darkness is a part of my process of growth. I don't think I will ever look forward to it, but I can rest in the knowledge that Jesus will bring me to the light, in his time, but I need to do some work while waiting for His timing. Some of the work I entered into recently was of Silence and Solitude, it was so very worth it. Thank you, those of you who inspired and helped me and continue to do so. (Deb, deAnn, Joanne) I would never have guessed that anyone would have wanted me for such a time as this...I am awe struck and Gods power!

Danna had been a Christ follower for several years, but she struggled with having a "head full" of Jesus and moving that knowledge into her heart. It is more of a "process" for some of us, me included! I am happy to say, that on a morning that I wasn't with her, she completely surrendered to Jesus. She didn't have to tell me, I could actually see it in her. She was still very, very sick, but she had a radiance about her. Approximately 10 days later,on January 4 she left this earthly home for heaven. Even though that was a day of celebration, and I fully know and understand that it was, I felt a little lost. The preceding days were filled with lots of phone calls and conversations, so I kept myself busy....really busy! Her celebration of life service was on January 8, 2008 and her husband and daughter asked if I would speak. I was honored again, to do that. Today, for some reason, I heard the song by Casting Crowns, Praise you in the storm....and I fell to pieces. I wept like I haven't wept for years....because...I am still on this side of heaven...and I will miss my friend..."Danna Banana".