Outside My Window

“But as it is written: Eye has not seen. Nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for those who love him.” I Corinthians 2:9

I was sitting at my desk working on a Bible study lesson, when a flutter passed by the corner of my eye. Outside my window was a beautiful Monarch butterfly. I stopped writing to take a few pictures. It’s the first Monarch I’ve seen on the butterfly plant in months. My immediate response was, “Hi, Shelly!” You see, ever since my daughter went to Heaven, six years ago, I’ve had that instant reaction when I see a butterfly.

Seeing this beautiful butterfly mustered somewhat of a sad feeling, a few tears, and the familiar ache to my heart that I know I’ll always have (the price of great love). But at the same time a smile appeared. I miss Shelly so much, especially when I’m with her children and those precious grandchildren she never had the opportunity to meet.

I sometimes think of how much Shelly is missing, but as I write this, the above verse of scripture comes to mind, and my heart is lifted. Shelly is no longer constrained by the things of this world. She’s not worrying about all that’s happening down here, but is safe, secure, well, and more joyful than we could ever imagine. She’s with her Lord and Savior and that’s more than enough. After all, that’s the goal of every Christian and the desire of our Heavenly Father—that all would come to know Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior, so that they might spend eternity with Him when their time on earth is over.

Family and friends, we have a HOPE that far surpasses anything this world throws at us! And I’m very thankful for that truth, as well as the many memories I am holding deep in my heart until I see my sweet girl again.

God is a good Father. He gives us His best in times of plenty and in times of need. We can always depend on Him no matter where we are in our journey of life.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, You love us so much that You send reminders such as butterflies our way. In doing so, we are given hope and assurance that You see every detail of our lives. You know our individual struggles, sorrows, and pain. You know our joy, for it is present way more than our sorrow. Still, it is through our faith and Your great love that we make it through these days in which we are living. Thank You for a love that far surpasses anything we can imagine. Help us to always look to You, whether it’s on our good days, or those days that challenge us. We know that You are always with us and that You will never leave or forsake us. For this and so much more, we are eternally grateful! These things I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.