Christian Living

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Magic Moment
©
by

Stephen A. Peterson

…the Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the Name of the Lord!

Job 1:21 (NIV)

It was May 12, 1999 one day after I received the news that my father had died. One day of reflection and reaction to what had occurred. For all of my thanatological and professional training, I knew that I should not isolate myself. But who should I discuss this most intimate of human events with who would be neutral but offer solace. My first thought was my adopted Native American sister of the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma, Janie Neash. Unlike many people of the planet earth, Native Americans feel oneness with each other though we may be members of another tribe. For us we are one.

I called my sister then told her of the death of my father, “Well, brother, now is the time for you to count your blessings.” I was shocked at first until she stated, “I know it sounds unusual but you should sit down and pray about this to God, Our Father, and He will reveal what I’m saying to you. I will also pray for you and your father. But Our Father in heaven will show you the way.”

Still grieving, I took my wise sister’s advice—I prayed and tried to list good things that came out of my father’s life. His being firm when we were wrong, never abandoning the more than a dozen children he helped bring into this world, serving the nation in a time of war though discriminated against. As I worked on my list, sorrow began to diminish in size though still present.

In time, my big sister’s prayers and suggestion has become a valuable and useful tool for other kinds of disappointments, too. When I have disagreements with my wife, children or family members, I pray and think of the love, support and laughter they have brought into my life. Or when a family member or friend forgets special moments, I try to remember the many times they have been there to give me support.

Is there some sorrow or disappointment that seems to linger in your life? Maybe, like me, you need to sit down and pray about it then do a “silver lining” checklist. I realize it sounds odd. But just think about it!

Prayer: Almighty Father, it is extremely difficult at times to let go of my problems, but Lord here are some reasons I feel blessed and grateful:

1. __________________________________________

2. __________________________________________

3. __________________________________________

4. __________________________________________

5. __________________________________________

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