never will i forget this night.

the power of the Lord was so strong and present, and somehow peaceful. as a body of worshippers we lifted our voices, we sang, we wept, we prayed, and we rejoiced, though we knew above us our sister, mentor, mother, wife, and friend lay in bed at the mercy of a tumor that has grown so strong and so rapidly it looks as if it may burst.

we held her hands, we whispered our goodbyes and i love yous, astonished at how different this woman in this bed looked. once so energetic and radiant, she was barely recognizable, barely responsive. it was never supposed to be this way.

this is the closest to hell we will ever be. how great is the Love the Father has lavished upon us, that we should be called the sons and daughters of God. this is not the end.

Lord, we are ready for our sweet Betty to go home to You, to dwell with You in her new and perfect body, and to praise You as she has her whole life. what rejoicing there will be.