Sad day

I don't remember the days of the week, let alone the date here in Mali. But this morning, I walked outside with Silas and felt the cooler air. It's finally cooling down here (still 90s or higher in the day, but the night is cooler). The cool air hit me with the sudden reality that today was November 7th. Today marks one year without John, my uncle. It's a sad day. We all still miss him. I still have his picture in my Bible, not quite ready to put it in a place where I don't see it as often. Still unfathomable that he is gone. No more of his laugh, his competitive spirit, his genuine love and excitement about everything, his servant's heart and his love for His Father.

I am thankful today to have known John, to be a part of his family. I am thankful for all the fun times we had with him and for all the times he made us laugh. I am thankful to have watched him always be willing to serve others. I am thankful for the many prayers I heard him pray. I am thankful to have seen a beautiful marriage- where the two were inseparable. They had a wonderful friendship and always enjoyed each other. Even though I think his time here on earth was cut too short, I am thankful for the time we did have with him. I am thankful the Lord is in control, that He knows all things and that His plans are good, even though we don't always understand them. Praying for my aunt and cousins today that they would know His peace that passes all understanding.