Faithful, Loss, & Life

EMILY WICKHAM began her writing and speaking journey in 2005. She writes for Lifeway Christian Resources and enjoys serving the Lord as an author, speaker, and podcaster. She teaches via Indestructible Life, a podcast where women discover the life Jesus is and treasure the life God's Word gives. Emily also shares brief messages about the return of Christ on her YouTube channel. Please connect with Emily by subscribing below to her blog, Heart Stirrings.

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FAITHFUL, LOSS, & LIFE

Dear Readers,

By God’s grace, I’ve never missed writing a ministry update. Yet all that changed when I found my dear dad on his bathroom floor this past April 1. I’ll never forget. Though he possessed mental clarity and articulated instructions effectively, I couldn’t get him up. Thankfully, my brother-in-law hurried down the street, lifted dad up, and we helped him to his lazyboy. He eventually asked me about my recent trip, expressing his interest in all the details. I shared while he sipped to the bottom of his strawberry milkshake.

Dad’s health radically declined day by day, and hospice promptly approved him for care. I remain incredibly grateful for their assistance. I’m also most thankful to the Lord for the sweet moments He granted me to interact with Dad during his ordeal. It was an honor and privilege to care for him alongside my sisters and brother—he was such a faithful man of God and most wonderful father!

I’ll never forget.

My beloved dad, Julius Charles Rist, 89, entered the glorious presence of his Redeemer and Lord on April 8, 2024. He ran his race with excellence, impacting numerous lives for Christ during his stay on earth. Though I grieve during this time of loss, I’m delighted for Dad to be with JESUS. His heart’s desire is now fulfilled.

Understandably, my writing and speaking ministry halted over the last couple weeks. But I’m forever thankful the Lord allowed me to minister to Dad as he transitioned from life on earth to the glories of Christ’s presence. Because Dad believed in the Lord Jesus, he is very much alive forevermore.

I’ll never forget the treasure of my dad and his Christlike character. What a blessing to be his daughter. Thank You, Lord.

The Glory of Jesus: Faithful

“It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23, KJV).

All throughout my dad’s last days, God evidenced His faithfulness. He directed our steps and brought details together as only He could. And every aspect was woven together by the Lord’s marvelous grace.

God is faithful.

His fingerprints touch every portion of our lives, and His hands cradle our fragile hearts. As Dad would say, “Soli Deo Gloria,” meaning, to God alone be the glory.

How is the Lord expressing His faithfulness to you today? The wonder of His ways enlightens our perspective as we journey through life. And one day, each of us will meet JESUS face to face … just as my dad recently experienced.

Until Next Time

God blessed me with His guidance and provision at the National Religious Broadcasters Convention. He enriched me with a meaningful stay at a dear friend’s home, and He enabled me to connect with others in the industry. I remain thankful for the Lord’s protection in my travels and trust Him to use my time in Nashville for His purposes. Thank you for your valuable prayers.

Also, I scheduled a personal writing retreat for May 6-10, and I look forward to all God has in mind. Please pray for the Holy Spirit’s leading as I evaluate plus plan ministry endeavors and work on my manuscript, Portraits of Prayer. Thank you so much.

God is faithful. Let’s keep our eyes fixed on Him.

In Christ’s Love,