Not a Goodbye, But “See You Later…”
I first want to start this post by asking you to pray for the Sterk family. Dan’s Uncle Dave passed away Friday morning after a long battle with cancer. He is now sitting at the feet of Jesus, pain free, cancer free, soaking in heaven and eternity, for which we praise God. Here on earth, are his wife and 5 boys, mother, two brothers, relatives, friends, and a congregation. He was a pastor at a church in Michigan. We ask that you pray that God would overwhelm them with His love, peace, and comfort. I do not find it ironic, but God’s plan that it was only a week ago that we celebrated Easter. We celebrated the fact that Jesus Christ CONQUERED death and was raised to life so that we may live. We know our citizenship is not here on earth, but in heaven – what comfort that brings – that earth is NOT our “home.” It is for a short time, but it is but a blink when compared to eternity with our heavenly Father. Though Uncle Dave’s body will be layed to rest, we know He is rejoicing and singing praises to our Father with those who have gone before him.
Uncle Dave really helped us work through some of the tough questions we had while going through the gestational carrier process. He was a godly sounding board and we so appreciated the work and advice he gave us. We will always appreciate and hold on to the things he said. It brings tears to our eyes to know that he is gone from us here on earth, but are thankful that he is saying “hello” to our two little babies. He will be the first family member to hold them and tell them how much they were loved (though only weeks old in the womb). That connection will always be there with Uncle Dave!
With that news yesterday, we knew today would bring a trip back to Michigan. So this morning we headed out early and made it back in time for supper with family. So many mixed emotions coming back, but we are realizing as we were driving how BLESSED we are to be in Minnesota. It has been 1 month since moving there, and though it is hard to be away from family at times, we know they are just a day’s drive away. So for occasions such as a funeral, we know we can still be with family, which is of great peace. But we know too, we have a “family” out in Minnesota that we love. I have a hard time imagining our life to be any different – God truly has led us to an amazing place in Minnesota and we daily praise Him for that.
We praise God for Uncle Dave’s life, yet know these next few days are going to be hard for the family. What a blessing it is to be part of the greater family of God and to know Uncle Dave is living in eternity!
