Holding on to the Promises

My 96 year old grandmother has made the transition from this world to the next.  She has been a pillar of strength, dignity and grace..... and spunk.  While I wrestle with the pain and grief,  I'm reminded of an old hymn; and as I read the lyrics, I find comfort.  Savor each line.

What God Hath Promised

God hath not promised skies always blue,
Flower strewn pathways all our lives through;
God hath not promised sun without rain,
Joy without sorrow, peace without pain.

God hath not promised we shall not know
Toil and temptation, trouble and woe;
He hath not told us we shall not bear
Many a burden, many a care.

God hath not promised smooth roads and wide,

Swift, easy travel, needing no guide;
Never a mountain rocky and steep,
Never a river turbid and deep.

But God hath promised strength for the day,

Rest for the labor, light for the way,
Grace for the trials, help from above,

Unfailing sympathy, undying love.

                          Annie Johnson Flint

I'm leaning on the promise of His provisions:  strength, rest, light, grace, help, sympathy and love.  My faith tells me that while we on this shore are sad to say good-bye, there are those on the other shore greeting her with cheers and hugs of hello.