Plans…

Two years ago today I was on a plane coming back from a work trip.  A young woman that happened to be Connor’s age sat down next to me.  She was joining her aunt and uncle for a visit from Utah to Missouri.  We spoke about family, my son in college, school, friendship and faith.  She was planning to leave on a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the near future.  I was going to visit Connor at college that week.  We were both excited for our future plans.  We exchanged information to keep in touch as we wished each other well departing the plane.

One week later to the day, our son Connor left us to be in his Father’s heavenly home.  In shock,  I sat on the couch one evening as our doorbell rang.  I asked that whomever it was, to please be sent away.  As I sat and listened I heard the name Natalie.  I only know three women named Natalie.  When I heard her last name, I jumped out of my chair racing to the door.  Somehow my new friend on the plane had contacted the missionary in our town.  She had sent them to see how they could help our family.  Natalie had heard through social media about our son’s death.  She did what she thought she could from so far away.  What a gift!  We welcomed both young ladies into our home.  They said they were not sure why they were sent, but wanted to help.  We shared our story with them about the “chance” meeting on the plane and our son’s passing.  They shared their story of being away from home and on a mission to serve.  They offered to watch our children, cook or clean for our family.  I felt the work of God in our home as I have many times since then.  We were blessed that evening as we prayed with them for strength and healing.  This was certainly one time that these missionaries were welcomed with open arms into a strangers home!

Each day since Connor left this earth, I am blessed to see God working in our lives to bring us peace.  Our family is not of the same faith as Natalie, but the same Savior, who is Jesus Christ.  Natalie went on her mission for 18 months and arrived back home not long ago.  I was blessed to read her updates via her Mother’s email each week.  They described all that she did in her words, her path.  Meanwhile, God worked in me, beginning to mend my broken heart.  I truly believe we are brought together for the good of each other, if only we can see that.  Instead of fighting with one another over who is wrong and who is right, can we share in the love that Christ showed us?  Each day that nears the anniversary of our son’s entrance into heaven, instead of feeling sad, I have been thinking of what a glorious day it must be EVERYDAY for him.  Looking up towards heaven daily in all that occurs and knowing that He is in control, is life changing.  Before Connor left what a christian meant to me, was going to church to hear the word of God and attempting to do the right thing.  Today, following Christ and daily devotions are what gives me peace in all circumstances.  Do I still worry?  Of course, I am a poor miserable sinner!  Yet I know, that just as I did not happen to meet Natalie by chance, God is orchestrating His plan in my life and for this I am forever grateful.  I pray that it does not take the loss of a child or tragedy to reach you, and that you can open your eyes and look up to His goodness and mercy in all circumstances.

Peace & Blessings,

MamaC

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  Jeremiah 29:11

Photo:  The foot of my bed most nights just over two years ago.  Happiness and the gift of children!