Dean's Remarks
Years ago, when we lived in Maryland, a missionary family returned to the US when their teenage daughter was diagnosed with invasive cancer. She was prayed for, had access to great medical care, was surrounded by loving family and friends, and was an amazing Christ-follower with a powerful testimony. Nonetheless, she died within the year. A few months later, as I visited with her mother, Toni, she said, “I went outside last evening and saw the beautiful sunset, in bright pinks like lipstick, and I yelled at God, ‘If you can make this beauty, why couldn’t you save Amy’s life?!’” I understood her mother’s heart but was a bit taken aback as I hadn’t ever thought to yell at God. But, she went on to say, “I yell at Him sometimes because I know he can take it and he really does love us.” And, 20+ years later, Toni continues to tell of a loving God who was with her, not only in periods of thanksgiving, but also in life-altering times.
As I mentioned at the School of Education Kickoff in August, I have been intentional about studying the spiritual aspects of lament in this challenging season of our lives. The practice of lament isn’t a regular part of my spiritual upbringing but I am learning so much as I dig a bit deeper into it...
