Shocking and Painful News

 

Ate Milda is on the left, and she is one of our arts and crafts facilitators. The children were thrilled with their arts and crafts.

Thank you and Goodbye

I can never forget your smile, your humility, and the joy you had in serving God, Ate Milda. Today, we have lost one of our faithful servants of God in Sunday School group and Vacation Bible School Evangelism in Leyte, Philippines. My heart aches from your sudden passing. You were like a sister to me, and we are sisters in Christ. The children, the VBSE group, and I will miss you deeply. Your loss is great to us, as you were such a gracious person and always so helpful.

When we lose a loved one, it's natural to ask countless questions—

Why? Why? Why?

• I find myself asking, "Why did Ate Milda have to die just when our Sunday School Group was growing? We needed her warmth, her compassion, her guiding presence as a facilitator." 
• I’m sure her husband and children have many questions of their own, too.

In moments like this, I turn to the words of Jesus Christ in John 14:1-2, where He comforts His disciples
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?"

• When I lost my father suddenly, I struggled to grasp the meaning of these words. They brought me some comfort, but my heart was heavy with grief, and I couldn’t fully understand. Now, as we face the pain of losing Ate Milda, I still feel that ache—sharp, unexpected, and difficult to bear. But I take comfort knowing that, even in the midst of the pain, God is preparing a place for those we love, and that they are at peace in His presence.
• Losing Ate Milda is deeply painful and shocking. Her absence leaves a void in our hearts, yet we hold on to the hope that one day we will understand, and that her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.

Where to Go When We Are in Pain

• When we find ourselves in the depths of pain, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, there is only one true source of healing and comfort—God Almighty. Our Heavenly Father, who watches over us both in heaven and on earth, is always ready to ease our grief and bring peace to our troubled hearts. He understands the pain that is too heavy for us to bear, the sorrow that weighs down our spirit, and He promises to be near to the brokenhearted.
• In times of suffering, we can turn to our Lord, Jesus Christ, who is always waiting for us with open arms. Jesus, who knows what it means to suffer, invites us to surrender our pain and brokenness to Him. He offers His grace, mercy, and healing, ready to restore us to wholeness.
• Additionally, it is important to remember that we are not alone in our pain. Sharing our burdens with someone we trust can also be a source of comfort. Whether it’s a pastor, a friend, or someone who can offer a listening ear and prayer, reaching out for support allows us to feel the warmth of community and the strength of shared faith.

HOME IN THE LORD

In 2 Corinthians 5:8, Paul shares a profound truth: "We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord." This passage reminds us that when we are absent from our physical bodies, we are present with the Lord. It's a comforting promise that, for those who know Christ, death is not an end, but a transition to eternal life in God's presence.

As I reflect on this promise, I find comfort knowing that my father and Ate Milda are now with the Lord. Though their physical presence is no longer with us, they are in the presence of God, experiencing His peace, love, and eternal joy. I will miss them deeply, but I find hope in the knowledge that they are in the safest and most wonderful place, embraced by the Father.

Their memory will live on in my heart, and I will continue to cherish the time we shared. Until we meet again, I take solace in the truth that they are now with the Lord, where there is no more pain, no more sorrow, only everlasting peace.

GOD loves you, and May the LORD bless you all.