Life is tough. That’s no secret to any of us, but it is a reality with which we live every day. As long as we are on earth, it will never get easier.
Over the last couple of days, I have been given a strong reminder of this fact.
Yesterday, my grandmother (105 years old) suffered a heart attack. There really isn’t anything that can be done for her at her age. She’s not in pain, but she is very weak. The doctors and hospice care people are just trying to keep her comfortable until her “time” comes.
She is a woman who has truly lived a full and happy life. She has always enjoyed being active and spending time with friends and family. Over the last few years, however, her ability to do that has been greatly diminished. She has had to give up her independence for the sake of staying in an assisted-living facility, no longer being able to drive, and basically being confined to a wheelchair.
It isn’t easy for her, but in all of this, I have seen peace and joy ruling in her heart.
How is this possible?
She knows that there is something better ahead.
I have had numerous discussions with her about her relationship with God. The last few conversations we have had on the topic have always gravitated toward our future with the Lord. Her thoughts are filled with hope. She put her faith in Christ as a young girl. It absolutely amazes me to think that she has been walking with God for almost a complete century.
This isn’t the hope that is wishful thinking, but rather it is peace that is founded upon faith in the promises of God’s Word. She has both learned and experienced that God’s promises are extensions of His grace.
For the last few years, life hasn’t been so great for Nana, but something better is just around the corner.
“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared to the glory which shall be revealed in us.” Romans 8:18