My heart hurts for this family that I've never met.   I wrote a few months ago about Alexis and added a link about Alexis' story to my sidebar.   My stepmom shared her story with me.  Alexis was her great niece. 

On Wednesday, while I celebrated 14 years of marriage, my stepmom called me in tears to let me know that Alexis had gone to be with Jesus.  I had no words.  All I could think is that the Lord gives and the Lord takes away.  I do not understand His plan at times like this.  I don't understand why the Lord takes a child away from a loving family.  But, I don't have to understand.  God is still on His throne.  The Lord is still gracious and compassionate.  (Psalms 145:8)  His word doesn't change.  His promises never change.  His lovingkindness and mercy towards us never changes.  He is still worthy to be praised. 

It makes me think of my daughter's favorite song..

BLESSED BE YOUR NAME

Blessed be Your name
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your name

And blessed be Your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed be Your name

Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
And when the darkness closes in Lord
Still I will say

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

Blessed be Your name
When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's all as it should be
Blessed be Your name

And blessed be Your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be Your name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord blessed be Your name

Blessed be Your name
Blessed be Your name

Please join me in praying for this precious family and love the ones in your life well... our time here on this earth is so short. 

In His grip,

Lisa