The Comfort of a Child

Rev. Ray Joseph, my pastor for 15 years, passed away yesterday afternoon. He has gone on to Glory to meet his Maker and Lord. It is a glorious thing, yet very sad for those he leaves behind, especially his wife and children. He came to our church when I was 5 years old and he is the one who married my husband and I.

After I got the phone call saying he was gone, I cried on Mark's shoulder. Irene was on the couch with us, and was very concerned about me. She said "Mommy? Mommy?" and put her arm around me. When I looked at her, she had a big smile on her face that said It's ok, Mommy, I want you to smile with me. I love you. It was so sweet. Then I called an out-of-town member (Maggie) and nearly broke down on the phone with her. Irene must have heard the catch in my voice, because she came running to me and gave me a great big hug. I've heard that babies and young children will do everything they can to comfort when Mom is sad, but I've never experienced it before. It was so special!