For the last decade, our family has watched my mom, “Grandma Carol,” disappear one memory at a time. We’ve watched a godly, vibrant, witty, classy, fun, intelligent woman wither to a wispy, nearly vacant shell due to dementia.
One bright spot still surfaces – and we cling to bright spots. When we begin to sing hymns and old gospel songs, she joins us. Yes, she misses a few of the words, but not many – and she still sweetly sings the alto part! Recently she lifted her hands like she used to do in church. She doesn’t call any of us by name but still speaks the name of Jesus. Those moments encourage, baffle, sadden, and delight me. Mom recently entered hospice care so the King will soon set all things right. What a King!
I know our family stands among a great throng that has experienced or currently endures this or similar intense pain. Like us, some of you have people you love deeply, who live in the grip of dementia, or some other debilitating condition. When I find a person of similar circumstance, I feel an immediate connection. Not the kind that causes us to plan vacations together, but a deep bond created uniquely by shared pain.
I can’t speak for you, but I find something comforting about encountering others who suffer like I suffer; who feel similar loss; who pine for restoration; who hold tightly to the expectation of restoration through Jesus’ resurrection.
Paul described those who suffer and endure as those who have entered “the Fellowship of His suffering.” (Philippians 3:10 KJV) None voluntarily join this tribe. Typically, we get drafted into this Fellowship.
A degree from AGTS, CBC, or EU provides no indemnification from entering this Fellowship. “… But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.” (Romans 8:17b NLT)
So dear alums, as we endure the pain-points that stalk our paths, I pray we will embrace uninvited experiences as connection points (fellowship) with Jesus and other members of His Body. We’ve ran this far. Let’s remain faithful, and full of His joy. That allows those watching to see the stability that comes to those who count difficulties as acts of worship to our Lord.
If we may support you with prayer along the journey, please send an email: [email protected]. The team and I will pray with and for you.
Worshiping Him through the pain,
Pastor Terry
Terry L. Yancey, D Min.
EU Alumni Pastor / Ministry Training Advocate