1 Corinthians 15:54-58 – When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: "Death is swallowed up in victory." "O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. (ESV)

In 2001 and 2010, I wrote about how God has shown me rainbows: Rainbows, Still Watching, and A Sense Of Wonder. I understand these to say, "I AM is with you. It's okay, son. I hear your heart." Thankfully, we see only a glimpse of God's kingdom moving here on earth, but oftentimes, there is more going on unseen.

Anyhow, on Friday, November 21st, 2014, I put my mother to rest at a small chapel where I gave glory to God for His mercy. She was 94 years old, and her body was worn out and past repair.

God was with us on Tuesday, November 4th, when I was called to hear that she would pass on that day. After I arrived and my daughter Hannah prayed, I had a picture of mum in her early thirties, smiling. Having prayed for her recovery, and seeing her recover enough to talk, pray, and smile, I later realized that it was time to let her go.

After some struggling, she passed on in Jesus' care on Friday, November 7th. As I walked away from the hospital, I looked back, and unexpectedly, there was one half of a full rainbow cut down the middle! It was a reminder of His promise that He would look after my parents, given when I was travelling home all those years ago, fulfilled by God now! God is faithful.

Cornelius, Jairus, the woman with haemorrhages, the nameless centurion, and others are demonstrations of Jesus' compassion and grace for people who are seekers for God — those who need Him to make a difference on their behalf somehow. Nothing has changed.

Jesus is still here to encourage, guide, and fortify those who are weak, especially in desperate situations (or "the God jobs" as I call them). Not automatically changing the external situation, He always meets us at our point of need with His acceptance, love, peace, grace, and compassion.

Prayer: Lord, thank You so much for answered prayers. Your timing is always perfect. We rejoice in those blessings, touches, and signs from You that encourage us to keep on keeping on, even when our heart is breaking, or our minds and bodies are encouraging us to give up. Lord, we lift to You our loved ones, relations, and friends who do not know You, or understand the enormity of Who You are and Your great love for them. Please touch their hearts today, in Jesus' name. Amen.

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About the author:

Rod Marshall <roderickhenrymarshall@gmail.com>
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England
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