Prayers for my Mom

Saw her on Monday and she was clearly in the final stages of wrestling through whatever final things she needed to do. It was heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. Usually, my prayers feel like they are in a queue and somebody in the heavenly office is saying, “Take a number. We’ll get to it. He’s a very busy man, you know.” But as we prayed for Mom, it felt like we had the undivided attention of God. Periodically, she would startle awake, catch sight of my face or Jan’s, and smile and nod. It was almost as though she was trying to reassure us, instead of us reassuring her. We kissed her and told her we loved her and held her hand. Simple stuff, but I’m so glad we had the chance.

Today, my sister in law calls to say Mom has totally stopped eating and drinking. Everything is shutting down. She’s on morphine. I don’t think it will be very long now. Perhaps tomorrow.

This is hard. But also unexpectedly good. Please pray. And pray for my brothers and their families. Next week is very likely going to be a funeral *and* Holy Week.

As you might guess, I will be scarce here, though I do have some material front loaded for your amusement and edification. Please bear with me.