Wednesday, April 15, 2009

A Totally Different Easter...

The day before Easter, which also happened to be my birthday this year, was a bittersweet day.


We had a great weekend with my family and I'm so glad they were able to come and be with us, but my heart and my thoughts were filled with baby Alethia Joy.



Over 2,000 years ago, this same day, the day between Good Friday and Easter, must have felt like such a hopeless day for all of those who loved Jesus and witnessed his crucifixion.


Many of them must have felt like they would never see His face again.



On Saturday we went to visit our baby's grave for the first time.

Thinking back about one year ago on Easter, we had no idea what was in store for us.

We had no idea how much our lives would change in just a moment's time.



Some might think it ironic that the first time we visited our baby's grave was on Easter weekend, but I like to think of it as a God thing.


What better time to be reminded that death is not the end.


One of my favorite songs is called "Mighty to Save," and whenever I hear it, the line that rings strong and clear to me is "Jesus conquered the grave."



Each Easter, we celebrate that fact--Jesus did not stay in the tomb, He Arose!!


And we have the hope and the promise in His Word that death is not the end for our sweet, precious babies who have gone home to be safe in the arms of Jesus.


I can't wait for that day.. when I will see Jesus face to face, the One who died in my place.

And I can't wait to see our precious, perfect baby Alethia Joy.



Easter 2009 (37)

6 comments:

Liz said...

Amen!

I was thinking of you alot this weekend....with Easter and visting family and remembering Alethia...I'm glad that Christ's Resurrection is a source of hope for you -- as it is for me too. :)

Ben and Kristi Graves said...

what beautiful thoughts, charity. thanks for sharing them with us. :)

Charissa said...

beautiful. I love to see you clinging to the promise and hope.
I cannot wait until we too, are "safe in the arms of Jesus".

Marcie said...

Beautiful thoughts Charity. I love that song too and how "Jesus conquered the grave," we need to continually be reminded of that. I love the headstone you picked out and what you put on there, she is safe in the arms of Jesus at this very moment. Continuing to pray for you.

Unknown said...

Thank you for sharing sweet friend.
I know your strength comes from God, but its amazing just the same.

Grant and Jodie said...

wow, you should write a book. brought tears to my eyes once again.