A sister went home to be with the Lord last night.

For many years, she was but a casual acquaintance, but over the past four years someone I’ve connected with, more often than not, pretty much on a weekly basis. Drawing alongside her through what has been a long, hard season of suffering and endurance. Getting to know her as she has had to wrestle with compounding hardships she could never have imagined. On several occasions, sitting with her as she asked the “Why, Lord?” and the “How long, Lord?” questions that are often asked when one is in the fires of trial. And, more than once hearing her testify repeatedly throughout that time, “I love Jesus!”

And as I pause and chew on this promise in James this morning, I think of her . . .

Blessed is the man [the woman] who remains steadfast under trial, for when he [she] has stood the test he [she] will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him.

(James 1:12 ESV)

She wasn’t perfect. Didn’t have everything figured out. Really had no choice but to walk by faith and not by sight. But I can bear witness that she remained steadfast under trail and often bore witness that she was one of those who love Him.

She stood the test.

And while I sit here under the sorrow of her departure, she is there wearing the crown in her Savior’s presence.

And so, while we grieve, we do not grieve as others do who have no hope (1Thess. 4:13).

Go rest high, sister.

All because of God’s grace.

That you might forever behold God’s glory.