Remembering Grandma

I Will Rise
by Chris Tomlin

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

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

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"
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"

 

This song came to me as I was walking the other day and it reminded me of my Great Grandma Myrtle whjo went to be with Jesus last week. It reminded me of the truths of scripture that for my grandma, the day has come, pain is gone and she has risen to be with Jesus. Even though my heart and eyes will miss her, I can say, “It is well.” Great Grandma Myrtle lived her life well and fully. She completed her mission here and left quite an amazing legacy.

 I remember two special things about Grandma Myrtle that I wanted to share with you. As a young teen, I spend much of one summer in Happy Camp with the grandparents. One week Grandma Myrtle and I taught VBS together; A 12 year old and a woman in her mid seventies teaching 9 and 10 year olds. This taught me that God can use anyone at any age to share his love. For the first time, I felt like a leader and a teacher and that is a major part of who I am today. Grandma was not disappointed by my lack of experience or my youth. She saw it and me as a great asset, a valuable partner and modeled for me leadership, compassion and dedication.

The second memory that sticks with me even now is of the day my husband and I got engaged. It just so happened that Grandma Myrtle was staying with us and was one of the first people to know. She was so excited for us and blessed us with her words and her support. And that’s just the kind of person she was; incredibly supportive, always encouraging, seeing and rejoicing in the best life had to offer.  I only hope that I can do as well.