Good morning…
I woke yesterday in Ohio on my mom’s 87th birthday. Her part-time helper snapped a few pictures of us before we shared her birthday breakfast in their villa and opened her birthday cards and gifts.
After the simple celebration, I opened my computer and up popped a reminder: “Audrey DeShetler’s birthday.” Sure enough my mom and Audrey share the same June 9th birthday.
Jennifer, Audrey’s mom, is one of my oldest, closest friends in Atlanta. We were in Bible study together at Northside Church when Audrey was diagnosed with neuroblastoma at age five and a half. We have become deeply bonded throughout the DeShetler’s fifteen year cancer journey. Jennifer posted this touching tribute to Audrey on Facebook yesterday.
Audrey went to heaven on June 8th, just ten hours before her 20th birthday.
My mom and Audrey share more than the same birthday. They both have struggled mightily with health issues, challenges which have landed them repeatedly in the hospital, sometimes in the ICU. They both have been diligent prayer warriors for each other over the years, each checking with me regularly about how the other is doing. They both have been very well known for their strong faith, their selfless love, and their gracious acceptance of whatever comes their way. As they both have been filled full with the power of the Holy Spirit, the presence of God naturally spreads out through them.
I have a friend who counts the birthdays of her loved ones in heaven. I like that practice. So, happy 87 years on earth to my mom, Marie, and happy 1st birthday in heaven to our dear friend Audrey. For each of these very influential women in my life, I bestow the honor of Proverbs 31:31 (VOICE). Celebrate all she has achieved. Let all her accomplishments publicly praise her.
Dear Lord, I celebrate everything my mom and Audrey have achieved, all that they are, all that they have given. Their inspiring accomplishments are worthy of great praise. Thank you for their wise, eternal presence in my life.
…Sue…
