Update 12/22/25: Longing for Heaven

Romans 8:22-25 “For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now. And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body. For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.”

The last few days have been physically and emotionally draining. Caring for someone who is dying is exhausting, especially if you love them. We have been working with hospice to make Wayne as comfortable as possible. We had a rough few days, which left us all a little traumatized. Our hospice nurse, Lillie, is a gift from God. She has been such a blessing to us. I don’t know how they do what they do on a regular basis. 

I know I haven’t said much the past week, and it’s mainly because I’m exhausted and trying to honor Wayne in his last days. With Christmas just hours away, it makes this holiday a little extra hard. I was sent this as a great reminder though. “It’s not supposed to be this way. It’s Christmas! But this is exactly the Christmas He came for. He came to rescue us right in the middle of the mess, right in the ache, right in the longing. Because this-right here- is where His light shines the brightest.” Another friend sent me this reminder as well: “It’s not natural. It’s not what God intended — for us to have to experience death. Praying for you and your family as you navigate this.”

She is absolutely right. Death was not in God’s original plan, it’s a consequence of man choosing to sin vs obeying God. Christmas is a wonderful time to remember that is exactly what we celebrate…Jesus, the Son of God, coming down to earth to rescue sinners. He came as a helpless baby and lived a perfect life. But ultimately, he came to die for our sins. And one day, he isn’t coming back as a little baby, but as our conquering king! Death, although it’s hard, is not the end because of what he did for us. Death has lost it sting! Wayne knows where he is going for eternity because of he put his faith and trust in what Jesus did for us on that cross-He took our sin and shame upon His body in our place. Wayne is also ready. He keeps asking me when he’s going home. He has that hope and confidence because of Jesus. What an amazing gift to remember this holiday season!!

So although Christmas isn’t looking the way I may want it to, it really is the ultimate picture of why we celebrate! 

Wayne and his dad were wearing almost the exact outfit when his dad surprised Wayne with a visit. We were able to spend a week with Wayne’s family. His parents, his sister and BIL, and his brother came to see him. I know Wayne held out to enjoy the time with them. As soon as they left, he started to take a serious downturn. 

Aunt Karen taught Joella how to crochet. She’s currently working on a blanket for her grandpa. 

We enjoyed a lot of game time together. Wayne struggled with a lot of head pain during this time, but he hung in there.

He enjoyed a lot of fun treats, including his mom’s homemade ice cream. 

One of the evenings we met up with our friends at Chickfila and got to see a new game being created at Countdown Games. We also did prison break, and we made it out with 2 seconds! Shan to the rescue!

Wayne’s friend, Troy, drove all the way from Chicago to come spend some time with him…and deliver some S&T pizza kits for the kids for Christmas Eve. Wayne’s friend, Jason, also stopped by and caught up.

Saying goodbye is never easy. We love our family and Lord willing, look forward to seeing them in the spring.

Please keep praying for us as we navigate this difficult journey. Please also pray for God’s perfect timing in taking Wayne home. 🩷