In the previous post, I mentioned that three days after my parents arrived in Chile, they received news that my grandmother, Leona Nelson, passed away peacefully back in Minnesota. Her passing was a surprise, but not fully unexpected. Every emergency plan was cared for before my parents flew to Chile. That being said, being halfway across the globe has not been easy for my parents, as they had much to do long distance in setting the funeral plans in motion. Thank goodness for email and Skype, as they were able to connect with many family members and friends during this time of family loss.For the past three years, my parents have been caring for Leona in their home. These past years have been very challenging for my parents, but at the same time, have been a blessing to them. They truly honored Leona by caring for her during the last years of her long life.
Our family will not be able to attend the memorial & burial service on March 6th, but my parents will be back in the States in time to attend.
A word of thankfulness needs to be mentioned for Leona's impact on my life and the life of my young family. Through the years, I have become more and more appreciative of the blessing it is to grow up in a family with multiple generations of those who have not only put their trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Savior, but desire to be faithful in service to Him through their local church. It was through Leona's testimony and example, that my mom and dad are Christians and serving God in the local church. Thank you Grandma for impacting my life by impacting my parent's lives.
Through these past three years or so, Leona has faithfully supported our family while raising support on deputation, studying Spanish in Texas, and during our first year of service in Chile. We are thankful for your love, prayers, and support.
We take comfort in what the Bible teaches about eternal life in Heaven with the Savior. We do not wish you back on Earth, for in the presence of our Savior is a place far better.
Above: Our last family picture with Grandma Leona. Taken on Dec. 25th, 2008 a few weeks before we flew to Chile.
3 comments:
Our hearts rejoice at the enriching of heaven and yet we also grieve with you and your family at the loss that comes with separation. Praise the Lord it is but for a moment in light of the vast amount of time we will share in heaven together with loved ones and especially our Savior!
Reminds me of the song, "Just think of stepping on shore and finding it heaven...." Awesome when our loved ones are stripped of this earthly temple that always always gives us problems - - physical and spiritual, to move to a care-free exsistence where they can be free and become what we can only imagine. She's free!!!!!!!!Praise the Lord!!
What a wonderful Lady! I have the privilege of singing at the Memorial Service. The song that has been chosen is "Finally Home". What a blessing knowing that is where she is. She will be missed by all. Praying for you as a family.
Steve and Michelle Douglas
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