The Good Shepherd and Good Shepherding
Conversation #4 - Meekness
Ministering to a world of grief while immersed in our own pain and loss.
MEEKNESS…
Peter, the Privileged… He’s not often given that title, but it’s a good title.
“Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”” (John 21:18-19, ESV)
Jesus informs Peter of the terrible way he would die. And, without batting an eye, he tells him, “Follow me.” As if to say, “I died for you to save you; you will die for me as an example to those who follow you.” And what did Peter do? He followed Jesus!
We, the Privileged…
As with Peter, so with us: whatever death has been appointed for us, it is meant to glorify God. This hard season—including the homestretch season—is also by divine appointment, right? God expects us to recognize the final homestretch for what it is. Ours is also meant to glorify God. And for all of our whys, pushbacks, and negotiating, his response to us will be the same as to Peter: “Follow me.”
We don’t desire a life of pain and suffering, but if that’s what it becomes, we must humble ourselves, give thanks, and pray for grace. For many, death is sudden and comes with no warning. For example, many others (like Linda and Carol) will recognize when the end is nearing. How can God be glorified through us right down to our crossing-over moment?
The Ultimate Meekness Test…
How does this help us when we see by what death our loved one is meant to glorify God? In what ways should this knowledge make us better caregivers? Maybe it’s about giving those of us still full of life the opportunity to give back to those who have given so much for us. Or perhaps it’s simply—undying love. More than obligation or commitment, we feel honored to be entrusted with such a role. That might work out more as… less frantic and more accepting of the situation… less desperation and more centeredness… more calm assurance and mettle… more words of spiritual comfort and hope… more of what our loved one most desires: Time together, physical closeness, embrace, hours and more hours alongside… just being there… praying there.
Point to ponder: I never felt like I spent enough time, and Carol never felt she had enough visitors. Yet, I had to balance my approach with the question: What if this is not a sprint to the finish line but more like a marathon? How do I stay on top of this for the long haul? (This might be a good talking point for later.)