“Thank You” (Day 18 )

Verse of the Day
 "For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls". – 1 Peter 2:25
 
I was four years old when I died.
 
It sounds dramatic, but it is true. My appendix ruptured, and without penicillin I would not be here. For a few minutes, I crossed over. I remember the welcome, the warmth, and the sky filled with color like a sunset. Ever since then, sunsets have drawn my heart. Later in life, I realized what had happened—I had been to the other side. And somehow, I came back. God let me come back.
 
From that day on, I never doubted heaven. Even as a child in Sunday school, when the teacher spoke about eternity, I did not need convincing. I already knew. That quiet certainty stayed with me through all the changing seasons of life.
 
I was born in Massachusetts, but Maine became my home. My father quietly helped many people. Only after he passed did we learn how generous he had been. His life taught me that faith is not loud; it is lived through humble service.
 
Church also became part of who I am. I began singing in the youth choir, and music has been woven into my faith ever since. Singing is how I pray. It is how I speak to God.
 
Life has not always been easy. My first marriage was filled with conflict and pain. For twenty-two years I hoped things would change. One day, after a long drive filled with tears, I made a promise—six months for things to change, or I would leave. When nothing changed, I kept that promise.
 
God opened a new chapter. I met Phil, and the first thing I asked when he proposed was, “Will you share my faith?” From the beginning, our life together was centered on church, music, and serving others.
 
Looking back, I have known sorrow and joy. I have learned that forgiveness is the only way to live freely. And through it all, one truth has guided me: God let me come back, and I have tried every day since to live in gratitude. – Rue Geishecker
 
Thought for the Day
If God has given you another day, another chance, how might you live today with gratitude and forgiveness as a way of saying “thank you” to Him?

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