20 years. The time it takes a baby to become an adult. The time its been since the Dallas Cowboys won a Super Bowl. The time required for a White Oak Tree to reach maturity.

20 years. Seems an eternity when we’re kids, but flies like crazy when we're adults.

20 years ago today, my life changed forever. I buried my husband.

So many memories ... the brisk outside air; the faces of hundreds of people who came to pay their final respects; the anguish in my children’s eyes; the finality when the casket was closed for the last time. Placing his wedding ring on the ring finger of my right hand.

While so many things about that day seem to have frozen in time, many other things have changed so much. Kids have grown up. I’ve grown older. Life has moved on.

Today is a strange day for me. An odd mix of memories. While I buried him 20 years ago, I married him 35 years ago. Today.

I also remember a family who came into the Kingdom the day I buried my husband. They were re-born that day. I feel amazingly connected to that family because I was reminded of the circle of eternal life. As Kris was experiencing the actual presence of God that day, they were sealed with the promise of their Kingdom-entrance some day.

I listened to a sermon this afternoon on my way home from work. One of my favorite radio pastors reminded me that God is Sovereign. That means He is bigger than anything I face. 20 years ago. Or right now.

Here’s a quote: “Remember that nothing comes into your life that isn’t either allowed by God or decreed by God.” Chip Ingram

I don’t know what you’re walking through today. But be encouraged. Your journey is in the Hands of a loving, gracious, Almighty God Who desires to do a work in you and through you.

20 years. For me? I’ve learned that these light and momentary struggles are only perfecting the faith that Jesus authored in me. He is transforming my mourning to dancing. He is exchanging beauty for ashes. He is allowing me to experience God's blessed hope in the midst of despair.

“And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28.

Read it slowly. Meditate on its truth. Bask in its promise.

About the author:

Teri is passionate about teaching, writing, and ministering to fellow sojourners. She spends her days working in ministry and her evenings and weekends being wife and mom.