Today I saw God. I saw him in so many ways. Today I attended the memorial service for Thatcher Caleb Paul. This little boy lived 2 months and 29 days but has had a larger impact on this world than I have in my 19 years. I am family friends with his Uncle, so I have been lucky to get updates from family members as his journey continued but I also followed Whitney and Eric's blog, The Paul Family Journey, as they shared with the world their everyday trials, triumphs, and prayers for that sweet baby boy. The service was made to be a celebration of Thatchers life, full of the many ways that little Thatcher taught people of faith and hope while bringing people closer to the Lord. His aunt, and two uncles came on stage to sing two songs during the service. The raw passion in their voices was moving. It immediately brought tears to my eyes. While they were deeply saddened by the departure of their Nephew, they chose to sing praise to God. The songs that were chosen were "Holy Spirit" and "Tis' so Sweet" The second song of the service was so moving. To see a family, full of sadness and frustration at the current situation, sing and pour their hearts out with praise about trusting still in Jesus was so powerful. Eric, Thatchers father, got up later to speak about hope. About how they prayed daily, and constantly for Thatcher to be healed. For him to no longer have seizures or have trouble breathing. Eric said their prayers were answered, just not in the way they first had hoped. Thatcher is healed. He will never struggle to breathe or have another seizure. He is worshipping at the throne of God singing his praises all day long. One day they will all be reunited and can Praise God together. They spoke of the frustration, anger, confusion, and grief. While they do not know why God allowed this to happen, they know they will one day, may it be tomorrow or when the see God face to face in heaven. The scripture that was focused on was Hebrew 4:13-16 "Therefore, since we have a great high priest, who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weakness, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need"
God knows all our pain. Our weakness. Jesus went through the same temptations that we do and remained perfect. We can reply on that to be forever true. We are never alone in our struggles. He is here. always. How awesome is that!
God was present today and has been through Thatchers journey in this world. I have been changed by just reading his story and hearing of the incredible faith of the Paul family. They have shown us all how to truly live by faith.
