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For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance Ecclesiastes 3:1-4
God’s timing is always perfect according to His bigger plan. He knows when things will occur before they occur. He knows when we will receive blessings and how and when tragedies occur. He always knows how things work together for the good. No matter how hard we try to plan and schedule our lives, in the end, it is He who has control.
This is a hard lesson to learn. Sometimes the interruptions in our schedules are a mere inconvenience. Sometimes they are heart breaking. Last month was my own heartbreak. Last month my life and plans were upended.
It began last fall when I accompanied my dad to his local donut shop where he gathered frequently with his buddies for fellowship, laughter, stories, and of course, donuts. One of his buddies suggested I write a book about groups like Dad’s donut shop group. The purpose would be to teach young people about these friendships and God’s fellowship and purpose for our lives. I accepted the challenge and began right away on the book. Although I spoke often with my dad about the progress of the book, I wanted to surprise him with a copy once it was completed. I scheduled everything from the book cover design to the editing and the release date. As it turned out, God already had a plan for my dad in the month of March.
In late February, both of my parents contracted Covid. Mom went to Heaven on March 9th and Dad followed her the next day. They were blessed to be together to the very end. I never got to show Dad the book. Instead, I handed the books out at Mom and Dad’s funerals. It was a bittersweet and sad moment.
Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand. Proverbs 16:9
The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9
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My siblings and I talk often about God’s reasons and timing of our parents’ deaths. Our parents took every recommended precaution, such as taking vaccines, staying home. They seldom left their home and when they did, they were not around people. But this virus found them. We believe if it wasn’t for the virus, one might have passed away many years before the other and it would have been devastating. It was a blessing for our parents to be able to go to Heaven together. They were able to remain at home thanks to the work of dedicated Hospice workers. They were at peace with God and each other.
As for the book about my dad’s donut shop buddies, I read it often and feel like Dad is right there with me. Perhaps the reason for the timing for me was to provide me a source of comfort while grieving. I know the book will find its way to the right hands and pray it makes a difference for our youth. I pray those who read it will understand my dad’s faith and love of our great country. I also know, because I was inspired by God’s Word as I wrote the book, the purpose will be served.
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6.
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