Wow, I just was looking at my blog heading...and re-reading my comments at the top, noticing that I had referred to the song "It Is Well"....that song has always been top of my list of favorites...because it is what I truly believe and strive to communicate. AND, I've just found out that it is the song that will be the focus of the memorial service for Sarah Bergquist tomorrow night!

We never, ever know what the future holds for us...the next day, week, or even the next moment. We are taught to be prepared at all times, to be ready to journey on to live with God. And we are taught for it to be "Well with our Souls".

Am I ready? I like to say yes....however, I've always couched that response with a prayer to God to "wait a minute", just in case He had plans for an early exit for me! When my kids were young, I prayed that I would live to see them grown and dedicated Christians. For the most part they are...although I now pray that I can be around a little while longer so that maybe I can continue to help Matt in healing his spirit...and be there for little Ian who has gone through (and will continue to go through) an up and down life having divorced parents...and the confusion that comes from that. I hope and pray that God will let me be there for him. And I continually pray and pray that Steve will acknowledge the power and Glory of Christ someday soon...he is a good man....I'm confident that somewhere down the road he will overcome his pride and humble himself in front of the Lord.

However, whatever happens, even in sad times like we're facing this week, I want to remain confident that "It is Well...with my soul".

I've joked with my family over and over that there is one particular song I'd like sung when I pass...."The New Song"....it is such a glorious song...with such hope and confidence and praise. We sang it at my dad's funeral....and it is truly written on my heart.

I am so thankful for the gift of song. When I was little I remember sitting in on rehearsals of my dad and a quartet who sang gospel for a local radio station. Then I learned to play the piano, and the glorious beauty that God had given me the talent to use in making music! The older I get, the more I recognize that the gift of music is one I MUST use to His glory. It is powerful...it is moving....it is instructive...it draws us nearer to Him. Whether I am playing the piano, singing in the choir....or listening to someone else offer this gift....I continually praise God for that gift.

It is my humble prayer that as I sing tomorrow night with the group singing at Sarah's memorial service, that once again, God lifts my voice as a gift of music and praise - for His glory...and for the encouragement of everyone there. Sarah loved music...embraced it....so in her honor...and for HIS glory...it is the gift I bring.