Today, I will continue to share a personal story that illustrates God’s working power during my grief journey.
- One of the Most Memorable Birthday Celebrations
More than seven months had slipped by since Joanna and I each lost our husbands. In the wake of countless tears and unspoken heartache, we somehow found a way to endure.
During our call, shortly after the new year, I learned that Joanna’s 80th birthday was approaching. She lived alone, far from her children and grandchildren, and it seemed no one had made plans to celebrate her or even called to acknowledge the milestone. I could sense the sadness in her voice, a quiet ache that spoke volumes.
“Joanna, your 80th birthday is such an important occasion. If you have no other plans, I will take you out for lunch to celebrate,” I told her, my heart set on making this day truly special.
On Joanna’s birthday, we gathered at one of her favorite restaurants and shared a lovely meal. I brought a queen’s crown to place on her head. We lit candles, sang ‘Happy Birthday,’ chatted, laughed, and prayed together. Even though it was just the two of us, God’s presence and peace were with us. There were no tears—just a quiet, joyful remembrance.
Though I’m not usually one for big birthday celebrations, I felt deeply satisfied celebrating Joanna’s special day. Lifting her spirits and reminding her she was not alone filled my heart with joy.
Our inner healing begins when we lift others in their grief and need.
- The Straight and Narrow Path: Jesus Leading the Way
I completed the first draft of my memoir, The Chosen Path, in less than three months. While still waiting for a response to my book proposal from a literary agent I believed was sent by God; I started writing and sharing short posts about my grief journey. Meanwhile, I met an author who can provide services to edit, proofread, and help me self-publish my book.
Last week, during a call with Joanna, Joanna asked about the status of my book. I shared my confusion and struggles, torn between finding an agent or self-publishing. Without hesitation, she offered to pray immediately.
“I see a straight, narrow path—no side-tracks—for your book. You don’t need to worry or be afraid. God will send the right person your way. In due time, you’ll know with confidence what to do,” she said.
She continued, “Oh, wait. I see Jesus. He’s at the front of the path in a white gown, leading the way. He is the author of your book.”
This was such an unexpected vision from God!
When I called Joanna, we were chatting about something completely different. Then, out of nowhere, God redirected our focus to my memoir, revealing His promise through Joanna!
God knows the perfect timing to reveal His promise: exactly when we truly need it!
- Man May Disappoint Us, but God Will Never Let Us Down
I’ve been to many churches because of job relocations but never met someone like Joanna. She’s not the type to seek the spotlight. She didn’t take formal courses to be ordained as a minister with an official certificate to serve. She doesn’t lead a prayer group or serve on the church prayer team. She may seem like an ordinary woman, but her faith and the way she lives it out are anything but ordinary.
During our time at the church, in addition to Sunday services and Wednesday night Bible studies, Robert and I participated in smaller, more intimate gatherings, such as the prayer and home groups. We shared many friendly interactions with others. Yet, after Robert passed, I was surprisingly disappointed that no one from those groups reached out to me.
Yet, God sent Joanna—the most unlikely person Robert and I never even had the chance to say ‘hi’ to. She is a true gift from God. Not only does she have the special gift of seeing visions as she prays, but her outgoing and determined personality is just as vital.
When I was overwhelmed with tears and too shy to reach out or question God about my loss, Joanna always called me at the perfect moment and ministered to me with powerful prayers in a way no one else could—uniquely and profoundly.
Man may disappoint us, but God will never let us down.
- Finding Divine Purpose and Healing Through Suffering
In Chinese, the word “Crisis” is composed of two characters: “Wei” (危), meaning danger, and “Ji” (机), meaning opportunity.
The more profound truth is that while a crisis can bring danger, it can offer growth and transformation opportunities.
If I hadn’t lost my dearly beloved husband, I would never have been inspired to pick up my pen and share my journey of life and grief with kindred ‘strangers’ – like you!
In the midst of this unforeseen crisis and profound suffering, a door was opened to a newfound calling—a mission to help, serve, and uplift others.
Regardless of our religious backgrounds or paths in life, we all share in human tragedy, pain, and suffering.
This is a word of encouragement for those facing life’s challenges: every trial holds the potential for renewed hope and a new beginning.
I pray for strength from God in our times of hardship. May He grant us the courage to endure and the wisdom to grow through our struggles. May we feel His presence, guiding us toward healing, knowing we are never truly alone.
I find divine purpose and healing through suffering. May you find yours, too, by His grace.