This week my faith took a hit! I had so many questions that I was hustling to find answers to.

On Thursday, the news broke about the death of Pastor E.A Adeboye’s son – Dare Adeboye. When I saw the news, I froze for a few minutes. I immediately picked up the phone to call my mum who tried to infuse me with some faith; however I went through the whole day engaging in discussions trying to make sense of the news.

Beyond the fact that every news of death is always heart-wrenching, this one felt very personal – like a community loss and a test of our collective faith. I started thinking of scriptures like Psalm 91:16 that promises satisfaction with long life and I just couldn’t reconcile the reality.

This is the 3rd death that has struck me this way:

First was the death of my favorite aunt – Aunty Toyin. Her death still doesn’t feel real to me and thoughts of her still sends shivers down my spine. She loved God and was not shy in her expression of her love for God. She gave, loved, believed and served till she passed on.

Second time I felt this way was the death of the sweet Ibidun Ighodalo. Her story still moves me till date. The way she lived a life of service and uplifted so many people was such an inspiration and it felt like there was still so much she could have done and I couldn’t understand why she had to leave early.

In a conversation yesterday, I was reminded of the story of some Apostles and disciples of Jesus and the manner in which they died – Saint Stephen who was stoned to death , Apostle Paul who was beheaded and even our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who was nailed to the cross and died at the age of 33.

I still have questions but I have also learnt to accept the supremacy of God. To live in the knowledge that there are some things we will never be able to understand with our human mind and to recognize that every day is a blessing.

The toughest thing about death is that it is so final; there is no in between and time doesn’t stop. Life always goes on.

As much as death of loved ones will always hurt, the scripture admonishes that we sorrow not like them who have no hope.

“But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.” 1st Thessalonians 4:13

To anyone who has lost a loved one and is grieving, I hope you find comfort in the knowledge that they are in a better place and away from the turmoils of the world and I pray you experience peace that surpasses human understanding. It may not feel like it now and it may take time but you will experience joy again.

“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” Psalm 30:5

More than ever, I am committed to remember that each day is a blessing and to appreciate the gift of life.

Like the lyrics of one of favorite hymns, we will understand it better by and by. One of my favorite renditions of the songs can be found here.

Wishing you a blessed week.

Love,

Nifemi