Overwhelmed
Today I received really heavy news. A long time friend died in a motorcycle accident this week at the age of 30. The news hit me really hard. My heart is broken for the family, and as a friend I'm overwhelmed by the loss. Death and grieving are hard realities, and experiences that are only intensified when they come 'before their time'.
A couple weeks ago I had an opportunity to visit my sisters grave. It was the first time I've been there since she passed away two years ago, and it was a precious moment. She, like Arthur, was only 30 when she died. I remember standing at the graveside feeling an unspeakably deep sense of loss. It was so obvious that what I needed in that moment was beyond me (as was the case many times when Jayda was sick, and never more than the days surrounding her death.)
While Jayda was sick I wrote a song called Overwhelmed. It came as a very honest prayer in response to the notion that "God will never give us anything we can't handle". I believed that all my life.. until Jayda got sick. Truth is, the three years surrounding her sickness were full of moments where I felt completely overwhelmed. I quickly began to realize that we're not promised a life free from anything we can't handle. The promise is that he will never leave us, or forsake us. Each time I sing this song I embrace this truth remembering how often I find myself in situations that require something beyond me. These moments of complete humanness are many, and they aren't going away. I have also learned that God will forever be faithful to meet me, guide me, and even carry me in each and every one of these moments. Overwhelmed is a heart cry. Today I lift it up especially on behalf of Arthur's friends and family. As well, may it become a prayer for many who find themselves overwhelmed whatever the situation.
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July 22nd, 2009 at 8:07 pm
Thanks Chad. You have a beautiful way of writing.
July 22nd, 2009 at 8:08 pm
thanks for sharing this Chad. it brought needed encouragement tonight.
July 22nd, 2009 at 9:11 pm
"When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the ROCK that is higher than I" Psalm 61:2 Chad (and Janna) I am so, so sorry for your loss of Arthur. It just is so hard to fathom….. and understand. The scripture verse above has become so precious to me these last few years. I always think that the word "overwhelmed" would not be there in the bible had the Lord not known we would be at times. Somehow that comforts me. In essence, it let's me know it's o.k. to be overwhelmed. It is so good to know that God is waiting open armed when we walk through those times…..and I have found they are the best arms to run into when my heart is breaking, when I am sobbing, grieving, missing, processing, adjusting, and just plain feeling overwhelmed by life's tough circumstances. Just want to remind you that I relate to "overwhelmed"…….I felt it again 2 weeks back as I stood over the grave of my child. Again I had to run into those "everlasting arms"……Yes, God is good… and it truly is amazing that the one who owes us nothing is always there…..and always ready to pour in what we have need of.But for Him…..we could not only not stand….but we could not carry on……and because of Him… we CAN stand, carry on, and even flourish. I say that because most days I am amazed that I have kept going…..I owe that ALL to Jesus.Praying for you and for Arthur's dear wife and entire family…..for his countless friends…..with deep sympathy and compassion. May God bless the grieving. "He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others.When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us" I Corinthians 1:4 Again, I am so sorry. All my Love Mom
July 22nd, 2009 at 10:47 pm
I just found out about Arthur last night, and can't believe it. Such a tragedy. Know that I am praying with you and for you.
July 23rd, 2009 at 12:21 pm
That was beautiful Chad….and as always you make my eyes leak when you sing. Again, you are in our prayers and if you need anything…we are just a phone call away. Jonathan and I are so sorry for your loss. Travel safe and we will see you on your return. *HUGS*