Christine’s week in Orlando was filled with childlike wonder. She seized every opportunity to have a photo op with the characters and took in every parade or show she could manage. When I was auditioning for the American Idol experience, it was her hand that shot up when asked who wanted to accompany me through the process.
Surely someone who lives with such joy and wonder must have had a charmed life, right?
Not even close. Surgeries, sicknesses, and heart-breaking losses have marked her life from an early age. Which leads one to wonder, how has she survived, let alone thrived?
At the core of my sister-in-law is an unshakable faith. When she talks about the children she has lost, she speaks with calm and peace. It’s not denial or false optimism that holds her—it is her Savior. Christine has accepted her suffering without losing hope. She is confident that God is in control and that, whatever the outcome, He will be glorified in the family she and Dave have.
Many people talk about trusting God, but it hits me so much harder when Christine shares nuggets of her faith with me. She has been to the abyss. She has carried an unbearable burden. Because she hasn’t carried it alone, because she has rested in her Savior, He has given her joy that is as deep and profound as her sorrows have been.
What a blessing God gave to our family on July 5 seven years ago. I love you, sister!
precious.
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