Many people say this, and it might even sound cliché, but I have to say it for myself in this season: I love my church. While I could say that at any time, it feels especially true now. As we continue moving forward, experiencing the blessings God continues to provide, along with recent moments that clearly reflect His favor, my heart is both full and heavy.

Last week, we experienced a deep personal loss: my mother-in-law passed away. The matriarch of our family went to be with the Lord. Though we sensed her time was drawing near, and saw the signs, it was still difficult. Yet in the midst of it all, I witnessed something truly powerful. My wife and her sisters stepped up in the most selfless way, taking turns, day and night, to care for her. Their constant presence, their compassion, and their unwavering love were among the clearest reflections of Christ I’ve ever seen. I’m so thankful for how Jesus was displayed through their sacrificial care for mom.

I also deeply felt the love and support from our church. My wife, the strongest person I know, tends to seek stability during difficult seasons. She finds comfort in the ordinary, especially when facing life-altering challenges. At a recent worship practice, led by one of the elders who oversees the worship team, they closed the rehearsal by singing a few Spanish coritos that are heartfelt songs that mean a lot to both Lynette and me. These songs reminded us of God’s faithfulness and love, and as we sang them together, we felt truly seen and cared for. My sister-in-law, who also serves on the worship team, was worshiping with us that night. As I watched her and my wife sing with the team, it felt like a glimpse of eternity, like we were already at the finish line, worshiping together before the Lord.

I’m carrying both the pain of my mother-in-law’s passing and the comfort of being loved by my church. My mother-in-law was an incredible, strong Latina woman. She was a hard worker, a faithful provider for her family, and an amazing cook. Thinking about the holidays brings a wave of emotion. I’m feeling the weight of her absence more than I expected. I’ve experienced loss before, my father, and later my grandmother, and though those memories still bring tears, I’ve learned to live with the ache of missing them. I’ve often wished they could have seen my children and spent time with them.

Now, with my mother-in-law away with the Lord, I find myself already dreading the holidays. The thought of her rice, her pasteles, her smile, and how everything paused to make sure she felt welcomed when she came to the house, it hurts knowing those moments won’t happen this year. Even writing this now, it’s hard to process. But through the grief, I’m thankful. Thankful to have known such an amazing woman, one whose strength and unwavering love for her family helped shape my wife into the woman she is today. I’m thankful that she came to know Christ. 

The promise that we’ll see each other again brings both comfort and hope. We love you, and we’ll miss you, until we meet again.