Rachel Olinski / Student Ministries Assistant

Recently it marked one year since my grandpa, “Pa”, had passed away. My family decided that we would gather to share memories, be there to support each other and make the day go by just a little bit smoother. As I sat and took in my family I realized what an overwhelming sense of peace God has blessed us with this past year. Sure there are days that we are weepy, heartbroken, or lost but knowing that Pa is in heaven with Jesus is a reason in itself to rejoice. To see everyone remembering the legacy that Pa so lovingly built through tears, smiles, laughter and some Boston Red Sox’s apparel was truly comforting and I have God to thank for that. I won’t lie, it’s been a rough year without him and I would give anything to sit and have pancakes with him but in God’s promises I have been given hope. I know that one day I will not only get to see my Pa again but I will be in the presence of the One who loves me so deeply. I look forward to that day but until then I will be thankful for where God has placed me and be giving Him glory in all that He does in my life.

“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.”  Psalm 29:11