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Verse:Beloved, let us love one another : for love is from God ; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God . — 1 John 4:7, KJV
April 8 , 2018 , was the most devastating day of my life . My beloved husband of forty - three years , Ezra , passed away peacefully in his sleep . Earlier that day , Elaine , one of the women’s ministries leaders , and I decided to go shopping for gifts for our annual women’s tea party scheduled for April 15 . Back at home , I chatted with my husband about our new waterless cooking pot set , which we had just purchased . We decided we would cook lasagna in it for dinner . It was our first time making lasagna in a pot . When dinner was ready , I informed Ezra , but he said he was not quite ready to eat and would let me know when he was . He was working on information for our tax form and wanted to complete it first . I waited for his call to tell me he was ready to eat , but it never came . So I went to where he was working . At that moment , I realized that my husband had quietly slipped away .
The next few hours were a blur as my daughters , siblings , and church family were all around , praying and consoling me . Everyone was offering to help in any way possible . I felt overwhelmed with all types of emotions , but most importantly , I also felt loved . Assuredly , it was at that time when I knew I would not be bearing this burden alone .
My brother, Stanley , and sister , Norma , sprang into action and took charge . Thus began the love and support that played such an integral role in helping us navigate through this difficult time . I can only say it is heavenly to be a part of the family of God . My brothers and sisters of my home church were with me every step of the way on this sorrowful journey. They phoned and prayed, brought flowers , provided food , gave monetary gifts , and visited me . This care and love continued through the day that Ezra was laid to rest on April 22. Today , their encouragement continues unabated . A day never passes without someone calling , sending a text , or praying with me through WhatsApp .
On April 8 , 2018 , my life radically changed , but with the love and support of my immediate family and my church family , I can say that my God is good , and He loves me .
My sisters, God loves you and will never forsake you . Be a part of His amazing family.
Maureen Ferdinand