This past Mother’s Day I was thinking back on the life of my own mom. Mom passed away in 2006 but was always such a positive influence on my life. In fact, her impact on my life is still evident today. Mom had many medical problems and was always in pain; yet, she always remained positive and always was looking out for the well-being of others. Even though she was in worse health than most of those she encountered, she always found time to make sure they knew she cared for them.
I’ll never forget that sad day in 2006 when it was time for her funeral. In her case, it was somewhat of a blessing that she was no longer in pain but obviously sad for me and my family that we would no longer get to see her bright smile. The church sanctuary was filled with friends and family and the service was brightened by mom’s favorite hymns and stories about her life and testimony. The entire service was so very comforting to me and my family.
After the burial, I arrived back at the sanctuary where the service had been conducted earlier that day. For some reason, I just wanted to visit the church one more time. I’ll never forget how I felt that evening when I walked back in the church. The sanctuary was empty. All the flowers had been removed. There was not a sound in the building except an occasional creak in the floor. Just me in this large church building.
As I walked around the empty church, it reminded me of those times in my life when I have felt alone and isolated. It reminded me of times when I felt like it was me against the world. It reminded me of times when I felt insignificant and unappreciated and defeated. It reminded me of those times when I felt like I was the only one. But, just as the sadness of the day and the pain of the moment reached its peak, my eyes landed on an open bible sitting on a table in the front of the church. Seeing God’s Word reminded me of God’s presence. I realized that I really wasn’t alone.
All of us go through those times when we feel like no one cares. We have those times when life just continues to beat us down and it’s as if we are standing in an empty room all by ourselves. When you have those days in your own life, I hope you’ll be reminded, as I was that day, that you’re never truly alone. Even when everyone turns the other way, as long as you have Jesus, that is really all you need anyway.
