“Helpful Hints for Handling Trials” – April 22nd, 2020
Dear Church Family,
This is a time of loss. We have lost our security, our economic stability, some have lost loved ones, and others have lost good jobs. With loss comes grief. As followers of the Lord Jesus we too grieve, but not as the world grieves. In I Thessalonians 4:13 we read, “ But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as those who have no hope.” We grieve too, but in a way that is different than the world. Our grief is informed by the promises of God in His Word. That is why when a loved one passes who knows Jesus we can say that they have “fallen asleep.” It’s only a temporary separation. We have a very real hope while we grieve. The same is true of any other loss we experience. It too can be reframed by God’s Word. He is in charge bringing glory to Himself and good to His people.
Below is an email that I just received from Pat Bennett’s daughter. Pat went home to be with Jesus last week. Her family is grieving as those who have hope. Have a wonderful day. See you on Sunday.
Pastor Joe
“Hi Pastor Joe,
Thank you so much for your call and prayer with me last week.
Due to the Covid 19 virus, only ten people can be at the funeral; however, there will be a live webcast of the service. The funeral is this Friday, the 24th, at 12:00 noon. The link is not active yet, but can be found on the Dostal Bokas Funeral Home website. Here is the link to Pat’s obituary with info on the webcast. The link should be active for 90 days, so if someone would like to view her funeral and is unable to do so on Friday, they can see it later. https://www.dostalfuneralservices.com/obituaries/Patsy-Bennett-3/#!/Obituary
If you could share this with your congregation, it would be appreciated. The members of your church have been so amazing with their prayers, cards and gifts. I can’t thank you enough.
Blessings,
Sue Linder (Pat and Bob’s daughter)
Bob Bennett”