Grandpa Passing On
Early this week Mom called and said Grandpa Honey has seen a noticeable decline in strength. A doctor estimated in his current state, he would last around a week. Grandpa is not taking in food.
We all knew this time would come, and it is not soon enough as far as Grandpa is concerned. It’s no secret that he wants to go home.
I had not visited Grandpa in a couple weeks. The latest news struck me a bit. While I’m happy for his eventual graduation into the fullness of the presence of God, I’ve been a bit sad because of his discouragement. He has had to deal with so many infirmities in the flesh – deafness, blindness, and other disabilities that keep him from effectively interacting with people.
I went to visit Grandpa last night. I wasn’t able to communicate verbally back and forth, but I told him I love him. We held hands, and I prayed as I knelt by his bed. I couldn’t tell if he knew who I was, but it doesn’t particularly matter. I primarily wanted to see him one last time. Some day I’ll join him where he goes. I can hardly wait! I can honestly say that there is a part of me that greatly envies those who pass on.
I also got to see Grandpa one more time after this visit. Also there were Mom, Dad and Grandma. I got to hear Mom sing some songs to Grandpa. It was a great time, and I am thankful I made the effort to go again. I only wish I would have visited him more when he was healthy. Even so, I have no regrets and am happy for having witnessed as much of his life as I did. His influence on me will continue to bear great fruit. I believe I have been somehow imparted by a good Spirit of blessing because of his prayers. I will share more about that some time soon.