7-7-07. 34 years ago it was 7-7-73 and Joyce and I shared our vows and became husband and wife. How odd it is to not hear her voice or melt at her smile on this day. I still expect her to pop around the corner and ask me something. But two days ago, death parted us. She's in glory now and forevermore. I have more days appointed here before I can see her again. And I have more days to press on with life and ministry both for my family and my church.
Today we began planning for Joyce's memorial service. Pray for strength and peace as we prepare for Saturday's service.
In His Arm's,
Pat and Family
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continuing to pray over you & your family! my heart grieves through this with you & rejoices through this with you. May the Lord cover you & fill you with overwhelming peace & joy!
ReplyDeleteLove, Rachel Stratton (Dotson)
Dear Pastor Pat, Noelle and Jordan,
ReplyDeleteWe weep and mourn with you and for you . We all loved Joyce and were touched by her sweet and gentle spirit. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and your hearts with all of us. We feel so close and connected to you. We carry you in our thoughts and hearts continually and lift you up in prayer. We love you! Ron & Donna
Our hearts break for your loss. We are praying that God gives you His strength and His peace as you prepare for Joyce's memorial. We cry tears of sadness with you as this anniversery has to be a tough day for you. It is strange not to have her here. But it is joyful to know where she is today! . . . and no pain for her anymore!
ReplyDeleteI used to keep the book of Psalms close by and pray the Word out loud as I walked through my first year (Linda writing.) I read and re-read it and prayed. I pray as you continually keep the "eyes of your heart" on Jesus that the Holy Spirit will give you the greatest of comfort today and through the days to come.
Wayne & Linda
Wow! You two had so many precious years together, God is so good!
ReplyDeleteWe share our anniversary with you, we had no idea. There you go adding one more inspiration! The date was not intentional, but was very precious to us that it was our 7th year on 07-07-07 considering the horrible storms we have survived, only by God's grace did we make it to this day and actually love each other more now than ever. To think, we truly credit Christ working through you and Joyce so much that we made it. It was the two of you that have given us so much grace to work with in our lives, to work transformation. You have heard our cries, encouraged us, given us sound wisdom and prayed for us...all from a distance. You have blessed us immensely.
So while we are rejoicing at the good God is working in our lives, our hearts are breaking at your sadness (and surely Jordan, Noelle, and grandchildren are torn up too).
We are praying for the Lord to give you the strength to make it through the planning of the memorial service. And while we cannot be there in person, we will be holding all of you there in prayer.
We pray the Lord will let you and your children catch glimpses of the glory that God is receiving through Joyce's life and death and that will somehow give you His peace.
Love and hugs to you from all of our family. (Even our 6 year old is praying for you, how precious are the sincere prayers of children to the Lord.)
There were may tears of Joy and sorrow this morning as Miles gave a beautiful sermon and reassured everyone that Joyce is at peace.
ReplyDeleteOur prayes,and thoughts continue to be with your family. Our hearts are broken along with yours but we all continue to press forward. You are very much loved by your flock. Now we continue to 'uplift you and your family in prayer. We pray for your good health and that the doctors will use wisdom before they decide to operate on you, as God our Father can make you well should He decide to. He is using you and your faith at this time in a mighty way. You just don't talk the talk, you walk the walk.
God Bless you and your family.
Pat,
ReplyDeleteYou both were in our thoughts on this day we share with you. It was so empty. It will never be the same without her. I am so lost for words and my heart aches so much. I know it will be extremely hard for you, Pat, but we know the Lord holds you tight in those times. Mike and I can't wait to be there with you soon.
In Christ's strength
Mira and Mike
Blessed be God forever!
ReplyDeleteContinuing to pray for strength, peace and comfort through this most difficult time. Our hearts ache for what you are going through.
ReplyDeleteOur love,
Jensen family
Dear Pastor Pat
ReplyDeleteZorica and I are praying for you and your family, our hearts are breaking for your loss. May His comfort be yours. God bless you with His love.
Your friends in Christ
Duff & Zorica
He tends his flock like a shepard: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart.
ReplyDeleteIsaiah 40:11
Dear Pat,
ReplyDeleteOn Saturday (07-07-07) I was reflecting on the memories of Joyce and the Kenney - Wasley family, and I mentioned to my husband as we were on the road that I remembered the day you and Joyce were married. What a beautiful and happy occassion! The thought of your wedding day hadn't entered my mind, probably since that day. Then as I read your "blog" come to find out it was your anniversary that day! This is a testimony that demonstrates how we are all connected to the same feelings, emotions and pain as you feel the loss of Joyce, so do we.
We want you to know that although we have not been able to be present with you during your care for our dear Joyce, our prayers have been steadfast and continous with you and the Wasley family, and will always remain with you.
Our Love to you and your entire family.
With Love & Friendship,
Diane & David Gonzales and
Delia & John Peña
email: dgonzales2466@hotmail.com
Love you Pastor Pat..My Prayers are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless you, Ivan
Dear Pat,
ReplyDeleteCarrie and I would like to express our heart-felt sorrow for your loss. We will always cherish our days(years) when we were being discipled by the two of you.
Pat, I have been so blessed to read your faithful words during this time and to see your godly example in your loving ministry to Joyce.
Praying for comfort in sorrow, and strength in weakness.
Love you brother, pastor!
The Lord Jesus be with your spirit,
Mike and Carrie Spalione
this world has changed! It is no longer the same because a very special part of this life is no longer here. I just want to love and make a difference while I am here because I really only see the importance of being there now.
ReplyDelete