I was working as a French teacher in a school in St. John’s. One day, I received a very unexpected call from my mother. She said that my father had had a heart attack and that he was taken to Grand Fall’s hospital. By the time Steve and I got to the hospital, Dad had been stabilized. What a relief!
However, very late one night, we received a call that he had taken a turn for the worse.
I remember when I entered his hospital room, I could see that his heart was beating wildly. I could literally see his chest moving because his heart rate was so elevated. I was really afraid that he wasn’t going to make it. I remember saying this over my father – “You shall live and not die, and declare the works of the Lord.” (This is based on Psalm 118:17.)
I am very happy to say that my father is still around!
I am telling this story because of one of the things my father shared with me after the whole ordeal. I recall asking him if he was afraid of dying. He said that he wasn’t fearful.
He also helped me understand this profound thought – He said that although he was unsure that he would draw another breath into his lungs, he was sure that God was there with him. “God is closer than your very breath!”
This truth comforts me when I feel afraid. Have you ever heard the song “He’s As Close As the Mention of his Name”(by Gordon Jensen)? I believe He’s even closer than that. God is there when we can’t even utter a word. God is there when your next breath isn’t!
Not even death can separate you from God’s love! To have this peace of mind is priceless.
Happy Monday! God bless you!