Tuesday, December 21, 2010

She Will Rise....

For the last couple of weeks, Granny has been holding onto this world by a few stray threads, and soon the magnificent beauty of the quilt of heaven will be upon her.

Though it cuts our hearts to shreds thinking of not having our inspiration here with us on earth anymore,we know the truth, that she has had her eyes set upon the kingdom of God for days, months and years. She has anticipated living in His presence more than anyone I know.

Ellie couldn't understand how we can go on without Granny, and I tried to communicate what I know as sure as I know that Granny's eyes are blue like mine. I explained that we go on WITH her. The Bible assures us that the faith of a believer is poured out into future generations, so that faith is surely surging into Ellie's little life as I type. And Kami and Luke and Hallie and Lauren and Maggie and dozens of others. Granny is very much with us yet will be preparing many, many heavenly quilts for us in heaven.

As tears pour from my eyes, I ask you to please pray for Granny's last days. Hospice care is necessary now, as we have been told 3-5 days is the timeline. Granny is certainly one to defy expectations, but in my mind she is thinking this: "Only 3-5 days til I get to see Jesus!"

I have been listening to a big dose of Chris Tomlin lately. The kids and I sing our lungs out to "I Will Follow," but the song that has moved me, particularly the last couple of weeks is "I Will Rise." It isn't a song Granny knows, but the lyrics fit her so well. I am sharing them below as well as a link to the song in case you've never heard it.


There's a peace I've come to know
Though my heart and flesh may fail
There's an anchor for my soul
I can say "It is well"

Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead

[Chorus:] And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise I will rise

There's a day that's drawing near
When this darkness breaks to light
And the shadows disappear
And my faith shall be my eyes

Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead

[Chorus:] And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise I will rise

And I hear the voice of many angels sing, "
Worthy is the Lamb"
And I hear the cry of every longing heart,
"Worthy is the Lamb" [x2]

[Chorus:] And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise I will rise



She Will Rise.

7 Wonderful Responses:

TableForFive said...

This is such a beautiful song and seems to put into music and words exactly what is happening. You are right though, I was teaching Khloe and Caleb about the 10 commandments and the 4th tells us that God will show and pour out his love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commands. What amazing, intangible gifts she has poured out over your entire family for living the life she is and has. We are praying for you, your family and Granny. With much love to you and admiration for a woman a never personally knew but would like to strive to be like. Big Hugs

Lauren Delaine said...

My precious Sister and friend, my heart aches for you. Soon she will be home, free with Him. And I will keep praying for you. I'll grab hold of her faith that I've witnessed here on your blog. I'll pray for little Ellie and all the other little ones to grab hold as well.
I'm going to play I Will Rise in the background as I go about my day, as I pray.
Fly, Granny! Fly to Jesus!
I love you, Annie!

Craig said...

Sorry to hear your granny is seemingly in the last stages of life on this earth. You & your family will always remember the way she touched others and glorified God. What a model! I love Chris Tomlim too. Thanks Annie!

Kathleen said...

Oh, Annie, I am so sorry!! But so excited for Granny for what lies ahead. I almost said that I am sorry we will not hear more stories about Granny, but I know she has left such a legacy, there will always be stories left to tell about what a wonderful person Granny is! Such a lovely song to carry you through, and I pray all of His peace upon Granny, you, your children, and your family! May this be an opportunity to celebrate a wonderful life!

Shannon said...

Praying for you all. It is so hard for us left behind. But what a wonderful assurance we have in Heaven. What would we do without it? Praying things go easy and peacefully for her. What a lady... Take peace, Annie.

momof4kr said...

Been thinking all day about "the magnificent beauty of the quilt of heaven" and the beautiful crowns Granny is going to receive...and the legacy she has left behind.

@nnie said...

thanks everyone for the gift of your words. I hold on to them tightly the next few days. I appreciate you letting me know you were here.