Sweet Hour of Prayer

(The first part of this blog was written on Friday - before Dale's dad passed away)

Sweet hour of prayer!

Sweet hour of prayer!

that calls me from a world of care,

and bids me at my Father's throne

make all my wants and wishes known.

In seasons of distress and grief,

my soul has often found relief,

and oft escaped the tempter's snare

by thy return, sweet hour of prayer!

Sweet hour of prayer!

Sweet hour of prayer!

thy wings shall my petition bear

to him whose truth and faithfulness

engage the waiting soul to bless.

And since he bids me seek his face,

believe his word, and trust his grace,

I'll cast on him my every care,

and wait for thee,

sweet hour of prayer!

I was listening to this hymn by William Walford yesterday (Friday) and thinking about Dad and how I didn't want him to suffer, but go home to be with his Savior. It reminds me of things I had heard and read about hymns - that a lot of them were written in times of trouble or need and were the outpouring of the writers heart to his/her Savior. The pastor's wife of my home church was the niece of John W. Peterson. He came to our church and was telling how he came to write "Over the Sunset Mountains". He was flying during the war and flew over the "Hump" (not sure where that is exactly, but you history buffs and officianados of WWII will likely know - the Himalayans I think). As he was flying, the sun was setting and he wrote the hymn. He said most of the hymns he had written were because of what he was doing or going through. I think that is why hymns are so special to me. They were an important part of my growing up. We did sing choruses, but not like the ones now. I don't even think our children know most of the choruses we grew up with. The hymns either. So sad. They can be such a comfort.

Wednesday, November 26th - We laid Dad's body to rest yesterday. He went home to be with His Lord on Friday evening. He went so quickly and was in such pain, we were glad to see his suffering end. The Lord knew and everything was done in His perfect time.

Yesterday was a gloriously beautiful day - sunshine and very little wind. Today it snowed and was blustery. We were able to drive where we had to safely and lots of family and friends were able to make it to the service. It was good to see everyone again. Dale's brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews, etc. were all together Sunday afternoon and evening at Elaine and Leon's, Monday evening at the visitation and Tuesday evening following the service and lunch. The siblings were off by themselves and the in-laws and a few grandkids were just sitting around talking. Caleb, Cindy's son and the youngest of Dad's grandchildren, was sitting there and all of a sudden he said, "It's nice to have a family that is so huggable, especially when you need to be hugged." (I might have not quoted him verbatim, but close enough). What insight for a 14-year-old. But he was right. We are a hugging bunch and we did a lot of that. And praying, too and crying, but we are not sad "as those without hope". We are happy that Dad is now back with Mom and they are enjoying the One who loved them and gave His life for them. Thank you, Jesus, for your love for us and our parents.

Thank you to all our family and friends for your thoughts and prayers for us. We will feel a big hole in our family without Dad in it, but PTL we will see him again! God bless you all.