On Monday, March 2nd, at 2:45pm my sweet husband was called Home to be with Jesus. Just moments before, Brad's breathing had become heavily laboured as his final moments on this earth came to a close. Brad had known for the past several days that he was soon to close his earthly chapter of life and enter the realm of peace & comfort that he could only imagine.
In those final moments we were able to express our deep love for him and cradle his sweet face in our arms. He left my arms and the arms of his mother & father to enter the welcoming embrace of his Heavenly Father. We know there was much rejoicing in heaven as this faithful servant joined in amongst the angels.
Oh, how we will miss this man. These moments are so bitter sweet. I am relieved that he is no longer suffering, I am so proud for the fight he fought, I am so glad that he is rejoicing in heaven, I can only smile as I think of him embracing his older brother, Brett....but oh, what a big hole has been taken from my heart. There is such an unfillable void....Brad's fun-loving spirit, his unbelievable energy, his humor, his joy for life, and love for our family were immeasurable.
Nothing in my life up to this point has prepared me for the pain of being without him. And in those quiet moments of despair....all I want to do is have him hold me and tell me everything will be alright. It is so hard to grieve the loss of the very person who you rely on so heavily for comfort in those dark times.
Well Honey...you don't have to imagine anymore.
What did your eyes see when you stood before Him?
Did you dance or did you stand in awe?
I know that it must be magnificent and glorious.. and I can only imagine.
Zeke asked me today what I thought his Daddy was doing in heaven right now. I said, "I'm not sure...what do you think he is doing?" His response: "I think he is running." And, I'm sure that he is right....running fast and breathing freely with a great big smile across his precious face.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
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114 comments:
A most beautiful thought....running and breathing freely. Your children, especially Zeke right now can feel your strength. You have certainly inspired so many many many people with your faith and courage. Don't be ashamed to cry. Don't be afraid to ask people to help you. I know you have an amazing family and you will all certainly sustain each other. What beautiful memories you have and will have forever. Hope to meet you someday.
You and your children, Brad's parents, and all his friends and family will be in my prayers as you learn to live life in this new way. You are blessed with each other and a tremendous support system, so it seems. Words fail (but God does not).
Brad definitely left his legacy here on earth. Thank you for your beautiful example of love and faith. I can't imagine how much you miss him. I'm thanking God for answering prayers and healing Brad by taking him Home. Zeke is wise beyond his years...you guys are so loved.
Jenny, my heart aches for you. Brad was taken home on the same day that my parents and grandparents were taken home 31 years ago. I will remember you and your precious children every year when we remember this "anniversary." I will not pretend to understand the same grief you feel to lose a husband, but I so deeply know how it feels to spend a lifetime missing someone you love and longing to go Home and be with them. My heart especially goes out to Zeke and Kaelyn. My brother and I were 7 and 2 when we lost our parents. They are so blessed to have you. You will be so great at showing them Brad's love for them and helping them remember him. I will be praying for you all.
What a blessing your family is to many others near and far. You will have many stars on your heavenly crown. May God pour His richest blessings over you all as you heal.
Love, Shebree
PCB said it right... words fail (but God does not)... I wish I could just wrap my arms around you and tell you that magical words that you need to hear but I can't... but just seeing your words here I know you are leaning on God and trusing in Him and He and only He is giving you that "magical" comfort that you need so much. You have inspired so many during this journey and I know that you will continue to be the voice of Christ even amongst all your pain... I can only strive to be a flicker of the light that you have shown through this journey with you hope and faith in God's ultimate plan for all of us. Praise Him for building us a home where there is no pain, no stuggles, no worries and no fear. Praise Him for being the first one to embrace Brad at his welcome home party... we are rejoicing with you, praying for you and grieve the void that he has left behind.
Oh, precious Jenny!! I can barely type for the tears that flow. I go between tears of sorrow and tears of joy knowing that Brad is not suffering anymore. Someone at the training today asked me if I was ok--during one of the breaks the tears came again. I told them that the Angel choir had a new leader today! They looked a bit confused but I only smiled. Know that you and all the family are loved and lifted up in prayer for God to bring you strength and comfort. Love to you all, kim e
I'm so very, very sorry for your loss.My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Warm hugs to all of you.
Sincerely,
Jennifer
My prayers will continue to go up to the Lord for your family. I have never met any of you but reading your blog has added me to your prayer warriors. Your family's faith is so inspiring and encouraging. I pray that God just pours His peace over you during this time.
Jenny, you and your family are loved here in Brooklyn. Please know that we are praying for God's unmistakable presence in your lives right now.
May God grant you a cleft in the rock where you can hide. May God cover you with his hand while he goes before you and prepares the way. Rest, sweet Jenny, rest.
I am so sorry for all of your loss. The words you written about Brad are so strong and touching. I will be praying for you and Zeke, Kaylyn and your whole family during these days, months, years. My heart is heavy for you all but know my family is lifting you all up and will continue to do so! A moment of prayer lifted up right now yall.
Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time.
Jenny,
I don't know you and you don't know me, but I am a friend of a friend of Brad and his family. Through my friend I have followed your blog for quite some time now. I feel as though I know all of you personally, and I am grieving for your loss as if I actually DID know Brad. You have taught me so much these past several months about the power or prayer about strength. I've never known of a more faithful or more positive person than you and Brad seemed to be. Thank you for allowing us in to your lives through your posts, your pictures, and your thoughts. Words can't express how very sorry I am for your great loss and I wish I could somehow offer you and your sweet family comfort right now. Please know that you are loved, not only by so many here on earth, but by your wonderful Brad from Heaven. He is surely so proud of you. Please take care.
I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of your sweet husband/father/son/best friend. I know your heart must be aching right now. I have never met you or your family, but you and your family will remain in my prayers. Love, Heather D.
I've been refreshing my browser awaiting your words...such sweet words about your husband! He is an amazing fighter and we are all so in awe of your Faith, Family and Friendship...I love you and cant wait to hug you!
I am so sorry, and so amazed at your husband's legacy that he leaves behind for your children. God bless you.
Jenny, We are praying for you and kids. We pray that the peace that passes all understanding flow through your house and comfort and guide you.
Much Love,
Micah & Rebekah McAdams
"But now, God's Message, the God who made you in the first place, Jacob,
The One who got you started, Israel:
"Don't be afraid, I've redeemed you.
I've called your name. You're mine.
When you're in over your head, I'll be there with you.
When you're in rough waters, you will not go down.
When you're between a rock and a hard place,
It won't be a dead end—
Because I am God, your personal God."
Isaiah 43-:1-4
Our Lord knows your pain and He will give you what you need. Our time on earth is but a blink of an eye. You and Brad will be reunited in Heaven and what a sweet reunion that will be. May God bless and keep you all.
Jenny,
I am so sorry for your loss. I feel the pain of you losing your best friend. I admire your strength and your faith. I will be praying for you in the coming days. God Bless.
Dear Jenny,
I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful husband. My son and I have been keeping up with Mr.Wims through your blog. Thank you for sharing your journey. The students and staff at Creek are all very saddened to learn of Mr. Wims passing. Please let us know if there is anything you need at all. On a personal note, I have really struggled with my faith and you guys helped me find my way back to prayer and church. Thank you for that. I hope to meet you one day. Brad was my son's FAVORITE teacer ever! He always had a MR. Wims story to share. Hugs to your beautiful family.
I love how you titled your post "There Is Much Rejoicing in Heaven". I can't think of words more true.
Your family, as always, is in my prayers. May God bless each of you with an extra portion of peace and comfort.
Jenny, words cannot express how much my heart hurts and how absolutely amazing you are to have the strength to write this post today. I will be praying for your healing, and for strength in each and every day. Much much much love for you. - Katy
Having a loss so fresh in my heart, I know the pain, hurt and long journey you face. Keep yourself surrounded by your loved ones and cling to the reality that you will see your true love again...Brad lives on in you and through your beautiful children. There will be times you think the pain will never end and that hole will always ache, but in time you will find strength. I love you and wish I could hug you right now...know that you are being prayed for today and everyday.
Dear Sweet Jenny,
We have never met nor corresponded, but I have followed your blog through a friend's blog. Our family has been lifting each of you up in prayer for many months. Our hearts ache with you and we know that you have so many emotions that you don't know how to feel. Our prayer is that our Father allow you to rest quietly under his wings as he carries you through the difficult days ahead. We pray that the Spirit intercedes when you feel at a loss of what to ask. We feel such a close connection with you and have been so inspired by your faith and Brad's determination. Your precious family will remain in our hearts as well as our prayers. We know Brad is rejoicing with the angels in Heaven and yes, little Zeke, I'll bet he is running. We serve an amazing Father and we trust you in his care.
Kelley
My heart aches and rejoices all at once for Brad - and aches more for your family. I join you in rejoicing that God has called Brad home, and I pray for his Earthly family - may you all continue to be blessed.
Brad had an infectious smile and contagious laugh - as far back as junior high when we first me. I'll continue to cling to the Brad I knew and the Brad he became (that I came to know via your blog).
You are truly blessed. May God bring you peace of mind and spirit in this most sorrowful time.
I remember sitting with Katy and watching Richard and Brad play softball together. Brad was such a good athlete. And from what I have read on your blog, a wonderful example of what a husband and father should be. My heart goes out to you and your children and all of your family. From teaching with you at Bonnette Jr. High, I know you are a strong lady, a quality which will serve you well in the coming days. Bless you & your family. Janis Fielder
Jenny-
You are an amazing woman. I pray that God will fill your life with all of the love, blessings and riches that you as a Godly woman deserves.
Love- Lynda Trenary
Jen and Family,
We are mourning here in MN wishing we could be there to be a support to you. We are so sorry for everyones loss.
I am so inspired by your strength and strong faith. You have already taught those lessons that some take a lifetime to learn to your son. His words in your blog show us all that. I can only pray to bring my children up the same. Thank you for being such a wonderful example of the strength that comes from faith. I will continue to pray for you, your family, and all of your friends.
-Angie (Tammie's friend)
Jenny,
I am sorry to here about Brad every opportunity that I had I would pray for healing. I remember Brad growing up and being able to hang out with the him he was truly a happy person who always would uplift those around him. Jenny I will be praying for you and especially the children. With lots of love.
Paulina Herrera-Carrillo
I don't know you but Jenny, you will be forever in my heart...I lost my husband when I was 24 years old...that was 35 years ago and there is not a day that goes by that I don't think about him and miss him. My loss was sudden, so all I can say is be thankful for the time you had to spend with him (not much consolation right now, I know). I'll pray for you and your children and am thankful that Brad is no longer suffering.
There is rejoicing here, too.
We rejoice the life Brad was able to live.
We rejoice the man Brad was.
We rejoice the family Brad was blessed to be a part of.
We rejoice the comfort Brad has.
And we rejoice that Brad made this a better place.
Sweet, precious Jenny you are one of the most amazing women I know. I cannot express the admiration that I have for you or the heartache that I feel for your loss. I pray that God will give you rest, peace and comfort. I pray that He will carry you until you are ready to stand again beside Him. Brad has truly left a legacy. I am proud to have known him and honored to have called him a friend. Thank you for sharing your priceless thoughts with all of us. We love you so much. We know that the road ahead will be long and at times seem too difficult to bear--we will continue praying for God to keep you wrapped in the comfort of his arms.
Jenny, I don't have words that could possibly express how incredibly sorry I am. I was just telling a girlfriend, who was commenting to me about what an amazing woman you are, that I've been looking up to you for years. I always thought you were so beautiful and so cool! How I underestimated you all those years ago! You are unbelievable and you inspire me so much. Please know that this house is lifting up prayers for you and yours. I know God is so proud of you and I can just see Him standing beside Brad tonight, nodding his head and quietly saying, "Well done, daughter" as He looks down upon you.
We have followed every post praying that things would get better. We are crying tears of saddness and tears of relief tonight. We will continue to pray for you and your family as another adjustment begins. Thanks for all your strength and faith - it has moved and encouraged us along the way.
Andy and Lyneil Beck
Jenny, I am so sorry for your loss and that Brad's courageous fight is over. I know he will forever be in your hearts and I am glad he is at peace ... From reading your blog over the past months, I have been so inspired by your faith, your devotion to Brad and your family and your huge heart and warm spirit. You and your children and family are in my thoughts and prayers and the image of Brad running in heaven is so moving. With all best wishes to all of you.
Jenny,
You ARE the strongest woman that I know. I am so sorry that you have feel this pain. I am just an awe at how strong you are and your relationship with God is so amazing. You and your family will forever be in my thoughts and prayers
Jenny-I am so sorry for your loss. I can't even imagine what you are going throug. Your entry today is truly a testament to God, you, Brad, and the love you had for each other. You will be in my prayers as you face the many difficult days ahead. We love you!
Oh dear sweet Jenny, so strongly you have stood in faith and love beside that remarkable man that you called husband and some of us called friend. He left his earthly home sooner that any of us wanted him to and yet we know, as Zeke stated so profoundly, he is leaping and running in heaven. May the joy of the memories bring you some comfort and know that even if you don't know all of us, we are still standing beside you in faith and love.
Praying without waiver.
Jenny,
You are such a wonderful example. I pray that God continues to give you strength and comfort. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you.
- Katy Thomas
We have never met, but I heard about your blog through a friend's blog and have been folowing your story and praying for your family. I will continue to pray that God will hold you and your family in His arms! Know that there are so many brothers and sisters in Christ who have never met you but who love you all and are praying for you!
I think Zeke is right. Brad is running, dunking, grabbing rebounds, swatting triples with a wooden bat, spiking and blocking, and the whole time maintaining a constant stream of hilarious good-natured PG rated trash talk. What an uplifting thought this is to me today. Thank you Zeke.
We have been praying constantly... praising God for Brad's healing in heaven, but crying out for His presence & comfort for you all. We want so badly to be here for you in every way, to be God's arms to hug you & His shoulder to cry on. We thank God for Brad's life & that he was faithful until the end... what a legacy he has left your family. Praying, praying, praying.
Zeke and Kaelyn,
Your Daddy was a great man and loved by so many people. Remember that God is good all of the time even when bad things happen to us. Be strong and love on your Mommy! She loves you so very much!
Jenny,
I am struggling to even find the right words to say. I am so proud of the way you have handled all of this. It is so obvious that God is carrying you through this and using you as an amazing testament. I am heartbroken for you and your loss. I am so happy for Brad. We are praying God's peace.
Much love,
Kim
Jenny...May the Lord be your comfort.
Your words are such a blessing...what a legacy Brad has left behind. WE are praying with for you adn your precious kids with every breath...thinking about you constantly and longing for the Lord to make His Presence knwon at every turn...Oh how we love you all!
Jenny - we have never met and I also never had the pleasure of meeting Brad but my heart is heavy tonight. I came across your blog a while ago and have read it almost everyday. Brad's courageous fight and your strength and light have taught me so much just by reading about you both! I thank you. My deepest condolences to you and your family and friends.
May God hold you in his hands and guide you through this difficult time. I am inspired by your faith, courage and love. You have an amazing family and network of friends. The thoughts and memories that you captured and put into words on your blog were and inspirational. Brad has gone home but he will be missed here on earth.
Weeping and rejoicing with you. I know Brad is so proud of you. You are a beautiful example of Christ living in you. We love you!
Skip and Nell
to all the Wims, I am so sorry for the loss of Brad. I knew him in High School. I have been praying for him since I found out about his illness since this summer. I pray for your hearts to heal and to fill Gods love during this time.
Mr. an Mrs. Wims- I pray God will give you the peace you need. The loss of a child is so hard no matter the age, but going though it twice, does not make it any better. God will take special care of you.
Jenny, I cannot even imagine what you are going though. I am praying God will give you the strenght you need. I know he will.
Zeke and Kaelyn, my heart breaks for you. I know what it is like to lose your daddy. I am praying God will be your daddy,I pray he will hold you in his heavenly arms. I know he will put people in your life to help fill that void. Take care of each other and of your mommy.
God Bless,
Ashley
Jenny--words fail me right now. Eric and I sit here weeping. We know that Brad is healthy and whole in Heaven and has the peace and calmness with breathing that we have all prayed for. We, and the rest of the world, have learned so much from you and Brad through this journey. Thank you for the AMAZING example both of you showed...examples of faith, love, hope and perseverance. We appreciate everything you have done to share your lives with everyone. We love you and will continue to pray for you, Zeke, Kaelyn and the rest of your family.
Blessings,
Eric and Rebecca
And He will raise him up on eagle's wings...And he will hold you in the palm of his hands...
Oh Jenny, I have followed your family over the past couple of years through your Aunt Vickie and read your blog almost daily for the past year. My heart aches for you and for your wonderful family. Please know that you and Brad have touched many lives, and I know that you will continue to do so in the coming months. I wish Charlotte was closer so I could be part of the run and part of Brad's service on Saturday. Please know that many people around the country -- many whom you have never met -- are praying for you each day. May God surround you with his love and give you strength in the weeks ahead. Nancy Williams
Jenny,
Even those of us who have never met you, only followed you through the blog, love you deeply and consider both you and Brad two of our greatest inspirations ever. We have spent countless hours sitting in front of our computers addicted to your words as you left us in awe day after day and filled us with such hope and courage and faith and love that we have been continually left speechless. Even in the midst of your deepest grief, you have done it again tonight. A person's truest character is revealed in their darkest hours and most painful trials, and I have never witnessed a more beautiful representation of what I believe God hopes we will prove to be. Thank you, thank you, thank you for these most priceless gifts you have given all of us--faith, inspiration, hope, endurance, courage, love, and the realization and acceptance of our fragility and imperfections and humanity--all as you were suffering your deep, deep, unspeakable losses. As you lost, so we gained . . . and we thank you with words and gratitude that cannot equal your gifts to us. Your reward will be waiting for you . . . and is as we speak. I'm told it's better to receive that reward in Heaven than here on earth, and I believe it. I guess Brad can verify that.
Kara Foster
Weeping with you and for you, and praying that His peace will pass understanding...thank you for sharing your journey.
Oh, Jenny - I've never met you (know of you from Sarah and Jarrod Dyer, also, my parents live in Granbury), but I want to have the strength and faith YOU have. I am soooooo deeply sorry for the loss of your best friend. I can't begin to imagine your pain; I hope you gather strength from knowing there are so many of us praying for you, your children, and Brad's parents. I am so glad you were all able to be together in his final moments - what a touching story of love. I hope Brad is running and breathing freely as well. Perhaps he's racing Brett... So glad the brothers can be together again. The two of you will be together again someday as well, and then you can dance or stand in awe of Him as one. Until then, Jenny, know the Lord truly loves you, and He will provide all you and your precious children need. I am sending you all my hope, strength and love!! What a special woman you are!
We rejoice in knowing that Brad is running well, breathing well, and enjoying himself thoroughly in Heaven with Jesus. I know there is a lot of Whooping going on up there, and probably quite a few pick up basketball games.
We deeply mourn the loss of our sweet friend, and his jokes, his laughter, his outstanding personality. We pray for you, Jenny, and Sandra, and David and Zeke and Kaelyn, and Bryan, and all the family. We love you all so much. You are such an inspiration to all of us. We will be here for you.
Angie and Darrell
I heard about you guys snd this blog through a friend of mine, who is friends with you. I, also, feel as if I know your family just from reading here - you have taught me so much about love, faith and hope and to appreciate every second I have with those that I love. I do not doubt that your children will ever wonder or doubt - they are blessed with a wonderful mother and I'm sure friends and entended family! Please know that I will think and pray for you often!
When I think of sweet Brad in heaven, I picture him singing...and smiling...and giving lots of hugs.
Jenny, I know few women of such great faith here on earth. You are amazing. Our Father is so proud of you and I'm confident He is holding you and isn't going to let go. May He wrap you in His love and His peace.
Praying for you, the kids, David and Sandra, and all of the extended family.
Much, much love to each of you.
Jenny,
I am so sorry to hear of Brad's passing. You have an amazing spirit. You and your family have been an inspiration. Your strength is amazing. I will miss seeing Brad at church.
We will all remember Brad and his courage. He was a great man who was so lucky to be blessed with such a wonderful wife and children. I'm praying for strength for you and your children to get through this. I couldn't imagine the way you must be feeling, but it's an inspiration to read about your courage and faith. I'm glad that you have such strong family and friends to support you all during this time. I will continue to pray for you all everyday.
Love,
Heather
We have never met but I was met Brad at New Teacher Orientation for CCISD. He was such a fun guy to go through those boring training days with. We worked together at CCHS -9th Grade Center together for two years. I was always so amazed by his faith and his will to fight the cancer for so long. He was always upbeat when I saw him and that is a testament to who he really was. You are all in my prayers and I know that Brad is in Heaven doing all of the stuff that he loved here. God bless you all.
Jenny you are the sweetest most amazing women. Your strength and faith in God is an inspiration to me. I have prayed for you and your family and will continue. Your blog has touched so many of us and I wanted to thank you for allowing us in your life. I pray that God will be keep you guys very close at this difficult time.
Amy
My heart breaks for the loss in your family, but rejoicing that Brad is in Heaven, free & enjoying all the goodness God has for him...
The faith you have all shown through this all has been amazing... I am praying for you all, especially the children as life has changed completely for you.
God is still holding you all close!
I don't know you or your family except through this blog. You have inspired me and given me hope on so many occassions. My heart goes out to you the children and family. It is so clear how much Brad was loved and how much love he gave. He is surely running and basking in the presence of God. God Bless you.
Jenny-
You are an amazing woman. I have been following your life for the last year or so and you and Brad gave me such inspiration of how to be a true follower of Christ. I will continue praying for you and the kids.
It's amazing how kids can say the simplest things and they mean the most. We will miss Brad and his amazing spirit. You are an amazing woman and I am constantly amazed by your strength.
Oh Jenny,
I have read your blog all through Brad's struggle, and admire you so for your faith, strength and love for your family. I am quite sure that Brad is running...wow. What an awesome man he was. And what a faithful wife you were. Your children are so lucky to have had the both of you as models of faith and family.
Please call if there is ever anything we can do. We will be praying for you during this time. We love you!
Brad, Jennifer, Ben and Brendan Helton
Jenny, Zeke and Kaelyn,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Your daddy/husband was a wonderful man. We were in the AFC together and there was never a dull moment when he was around. I always thought of him as a 'big teddy bear' with an infectious spirit!! He will be truly missed. May God continue to bless each of you and hold you tightly during this time.
Much Love,
Regina Sugg
Praying for your sweet family!!
Jenny, I only know you through Camille and your blog and have come to admire your family. I pray for peace and strength for you and all your family and friends who are grieving the loss of Brad. Peace and Blessings be with you
Jenny, know that you are loved and being lifted up to the Father for peace and comfort. I pray that you feel the arms of our Father embrace you and pull you close to comfort you while you mourn. Again, thank you for sharing Brad's life with us and allowing us to love him as if he were our own family.
Zeke's words filled my heart with joy!!! What a precious family you have!!! I pray that God bless you all.
With much love,
Rachel
Jenny,
I cried and felt very sad yesterday thinking about the pain you and your children must be feeling right now. I know that God has a plan to work all things for His glory and for good. I just couldn't feel that yesterday. This morning I remembered a Beth Moore study that I did on Daniel. In it she said that there are three possible scenarios for people of God when they face a fiery trial. We can be delivered from the fire and our faith is built. We can be delivered through the fire and our faith is refined. Or we can be delivered by the fire into His arms and our faith is perfected. Brad's faith is perfected, Jenny. And he is in God's loving arms. Hebrews 12: 1- 2 says - "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne." Brad is in heaven now seeing all of this. James 1:12 says - "God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." Your entire family has shown so clearly your love for Christ. You have all been running and enduring a very difficult race. Your strong faith and unending love for God has shone through all of this and has been a huge witness to so many people. God will bless you for that. He promises that to you.
You are an amazing lady, Jenny. Your children are so blessed to have you as their mother. You must know that there are many people willing to help you and them. You will have needs. Don't be ashamed to ask for help. Allowing others to help you will be a blessing to them.
With much love!
Christal
Sweet Jenny,
As I have been thinking and praying for you and your family, there is a song/verse that has come to my heart. I hope that it will comfort you and give you peace.
"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end, they are new every morning. Great is thy faithfulness. The Lord is my portion says my soul. Therefore I will hope in Him."
I believe part of this song came from Lamentations 3:22-25.
You have and will continue to be lifted up in prayer before our heavenly Father. May He give you His peace, love and protection each and every moment of every day.
Love,
Abbie
wow, what zeke said is awesome and paints a wonderful picture! what strenghth you have, you are in our thoghts and prayers. we love you!
Jenny and family ~
I've never met you, spoken to you, or seen your face. But you and Brad have become an integral part of my days as I've prayed for comfort and peace for your family, and returned many times to this blog to check on you. Your elegant way of sharing you faith and trust in our Lord has strengthened my own faith journey and for that I am deeply grateful. I am rejoicing today at Brad's homecoming into the Kingdom as so many are. And as so many are as well, my heart is breaking for you and your beautiful children. My prayers will now be for your hearts, that God will fill them to overflowing with His great love and the peace that only He can provide. Thank you, dear Jenny, for sharing your journey with so many "cyber-strangers" and letting us see what true love, true commitment to faith, and true family is all about. Peace, dear one, peace to you.
Kathy in Dallas
My heart is so heavy for you and your family. I cannot begin to imagine what you all must be going through right now. I am so sorry for your loss but at the same time I am rejoicing that Brad is Home! No more pain or suffering...just freedom and comfort! Jenny, you are such an amazing and beautful person, wife and mother. Your faith and love is an incredible example to all those around you. May God fill you with the strength and courage you need for the days ahead. May God bless you all!
Jennifer Mihills
Jenny,
If only I had some words that would help. I am so sorry that you've had to endure so much, but also so glad that Brad is finally free from this trial. I pray that God will bless you with ongoing peace, especially as you lay down to sleep each night and wake up to face a new day each morning, and that He will soon turn weeping into laughter and joy for your entire family. I wish I could do more. I doubt you will need it with the wonderful extended family you have, but if you ever want someone to just come sit next to you, I can definitely be that person.
-Kara Hartleib
I cannot imagine your pain but how wonderful to see what a great reltionship y'all had. What a blessing to live life together and have two amazing kids, even if it was too short of time. I will be praying for each of you during this time and beyond.
I am praying for you and your sweet children.
Jenny, I dont know you but have visited your blog after reading Camille's asking for prayers for Brad. My heart hurts for your loss and I am praying God comfort you and your family.
Jenny...
There are no words to express how my heart aches for you and your sweet children. Although Brad will be missed greatly, we rejoice with you in knowing that he is "running" in heaven! =)
I want to thank you for sharing this journey with all of us. Your uwavering faith has sincerely touched my life.
We will continue to lift you up in prayer.
My name is Traci Thatcher and I'm a good friend of Jennifer and Jamie Mihills. Jennifer has kept us up to date on your family's progress, and we've been praying for your family. I pray God will bless you with whatever you need whenever you need it. You are an inspiration to me as a woman of God who stood by her husband when times were dark. I have known lesser women who could not do that. God bless you, your family and Brad's family. Praise God he's home.
Love,
Traci, Arlington, TX
I know you don't know me. I have been reading about you and your family on a friend's blog. You are truly an inspiration to all! You have such courage and strength, and your faith is something incredible. I am deeply saddened by your loss. But I know that your family can be together forever someday and for that I rejoice. You and your sweet children will be in our prayers.
Run Brad Run! My heart and prayers are with your entire family at this time & always!
Jenny,
It is so hard to find the words to say something to comfort you at this time. I can't even imagine the grief of losing your husband and father of your children. It is beyond belief. However, I want you to know that we are praying for you and am so proud of you and how you have been so strong through all of Brad's illness. It is amazing to see and hear how much love ya'll have had together as a family. I am thankful that you have such a great family surrounding you to give you support and strength in this difficult time. Just know that you have lots of friends to lean on and we are here for you if ever you need us.
Love,
Todd and Royette Crawley
We can only imagine! But Brad knows. How utterly, utterly wonderful! Our prayers for healing have been answered by God. He is healed. You have memories to last a lifetime - two lifetimes. Isn't that fantastic? Maybe, I will also get to meet you someday. I feel I know you and your family already as I have been praying for Brad, you and yours for months.
Jenny,
Thank you for sharing Zeke's thoughts. It is an awesome image. You and your family have inspired so many people...I can't say it enough. God Bless you and your sweet babies.
Rachel
What a long and valiant struggle. I remember Brad when he was here in College Station as an AFCer. His life has touched so many, as have the words you've written day after day. Thank you for letting us share in the day-to-day struggles and victories. Your complete faith in God is an inspiration to everyone. May He fill the emptiness with incredible blessings and memories!
Jenny -
I am so so sorry..,
I have been following your blog for months and when I opened it up today I just cried. Although I have never met you all - your faith in God and love for one another and your children is absolutely beautiful and inspiring. I have learned so much from your love, courage and strength. My prayers are with you all.
Thinking of you -
Jess in Nebraska
Jenny and Family,
It is times like this that I wish I was blessed with the right words but that is not the case. Are there the right words?
Nancy and I want you to know our thoughts and prayers are with you and yours in your time of loss.
May the Peace of Christ be with you.
Dan
We have several common friends, and I found your blog. I have been following it and joining you in prayer. Your faithful story and fight has touched me so deeply. God is using you in amazing ways. I am sorry for your heartache, but thankful for the hope of heaven! I will continue to pray for you & your family. I have been encouraged beyond words by the faith you have shown.
Only God can help fill that extremey big hole in your heart. You an your family are in our prayers! I am new to your blog but spent MANY hours reading about your husband's fight and what a fighter he has been. God be with you and your babies.
Jenny,
May our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be sufficient in our time of grieving as He is in our times of rejoicing. Brad knew that God would heal him and by His grace and mercy He has. Brad is laughing and running on Glory's side and now fully knows as he has always been fully known. You and Brad have led your family well and I think the 93 comments above from loved ones and people that you have never met are just the tip of the iceberg representing the many lives that have been encouraged by your endurance. Allison and I only hope that we can be half of the examples that you and Brad have been to us. I pray that the peace that passes all of our understanding be a warm blanket of comfort for you and the kids. May the Lord bless and keep You, and may He shine His face upon you and grant you that peace.
With all my heart I hope you know how much a family of believers who I do not know, has touched my life so deeply. What a gift to see the love between you, your family, friends and church come together to lift up one in need. I can't imagine the road you have ahead of you, but I will be one of many continuing to lift you and you children up so that your heart may heal and that you might continue to shine like stars in a world of darkness. How beautiful your love and life story is- thank you for sharing yours and your husband's faith so honestly. I will never forget it. God bless you.
What an amazing and beautiful family you have. Your unfallable faith is an inspiration to all. Brad leaves behind a legacy that will last for generations to come. Thank you for sharing your heart and soul with total strangers.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Your post is absolutely beautiful. You and your family will be in my prayers.
I'm so sorry for your loss. May God be with you during this difficult time. "Lean not unto your own understanding...."
I wish I could take away your pain. I don't even know you, but my heart breaks for you. What a beautiful family.
I am so sorry words can't express how sorry I am to read this! You are all in my prayers!
I'm visiting you from Following In My Shoes!
YOUR FAMILY WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY PRAYERS AND HE WAS A AMASING PERSON YOU EVERYONE HE HAS TOUCH SO MANY PEOPLE IN HIS LIFE TIME AND RIGHT NOW HE IS LOOKNG DOWN ON YOU AND YOUR FAMILY TELLING YOU THAT IT WILL BE OK AND ONE DAY YALL WILL BE WHOLE ONCE AGAIN AND YES HE IS RUNNING FREE OF THE PAIN AND GOD HAS DONE WHAT HAS NEEDED TO BE DONE AND HE IS NO LONGER SUFFERING FROM THE PAIN AND GOD LOVES YOU AND IS WATCHING OVER YOU AND YOU WLL BE TAKING CARE OF
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Dearest Jenny,
I don't know you personally, but one of my friends e-mailed me your blog and I have been following it very closely for several months now. I cannot tell you how very sorry I am for your loss. With two small children it must be escpicially hard. But Zeke sounds like he had a wonderful example in his father and I am sure he has memmories that he will never forget. He sounds wise beyond his years and will be a great, great comfort to you. He is going to be an amazing older brother for Kaelyn and he will protect the two of you with his sweet words and questions that will allow you to remember Brad for the rest of your life. God will not give you any trial that you cannot handle without his help. You are a wonderful example to so many of us! Know that you are being prayed for and God is watching your every move. You probably don't need to be reminded, but stay faithful and surely you will one day be told "Well done, good and faithful servant." I am sure God has told that to Brad already!
All of us in Granbury are mourning ... and rejoicing with you. Blessings to your sweet family. The BL Kendall Family
Dear Jenny, Zeke, Kaelyn, Sandra and David:
I have been following your blog since 2/28/08 when it was forwarded to me as a prayer request. I have been faithfully praying for Brad and your precious family. I also recently joined the "Praying For Brad" family of prayer warriors on Facebook. I am so very sorry for your loss. I too cried tears when I heard of Brad's passing. I know that Brad is now running and free from all pain and spending time with his brother Brett. I have no words sufficient enough to express my deepest sympathy for you and your precious family. I thank you for allowing us to become part of your family and giving us all the opportunity to see "FAITH IN ACTION". Zeke had a wonderful Christian example with his father Brad (and will continue to with you Jenny) and feel that he will bring much comfort in the years to come along with sweet Kaelyn. When I think about you having had Brad for such a short time ... I am so grateful that Brad left two precious gifts (Zeke and Kaelyn) here with you, a part of him, for you Jenny. You have been such an inspiration for so many. I pray that GOD will comfort you, Zeke, Kaelyn, Sandra and David and all those who have been touched by following your sweet family. I pray that GOD will send you a TEAM OF ANGELS to bring you peace and comfort that surpasses all human understanding. I'm sure GOD told Brad, "WELCOME HOME, JOB WELL DONE"!! God Bless You All!! I will continue to keep you and your sweet family in my prayers.
Lori Brown
Crosby, Texas
Jenny, I am sorry, so sorry, for you loss.... my heart aches for you and my tears are bittersweet. God Bless you! You have enormous strenght, that I admire so much.
I pray for a mountion of strenght for you and your family.
Jamie Soliz
Jennny -
Your husband was truly an amazing man of faith. He encouraged and inspired so many of us. We pray that the Lord continues to bless you with strength, wisdom, and guidance, and gives you and your children peace and comfort during this time of great loss.
Jenn,
Words can't express how much I hurt for you. How insightful is Zeke to know his daddy is running in heaven. Although Brad may not be here physically he is definitely looking down on you, Zeke and K. Zeke and K will forever have a guardian angel as they carry on throughout their lives. Hugs from across the miles!!! Clint and I will hold you in our thoughts and prayers.
Love you,
Sherry
I am so extremely sorrowful for your family's loss. I was sent over here from Rachel at Following in My Shoes, and I am so grateful that she gave me the opportunity to offer you my words of condolences.
You seem like such a strong woman, and I send you all the love in the world to keep your family afloat in this difficult time.
Dear Jenny, I know it wasn't an accident that I stumbled across your page. I am committed to praying for you and your family. Your faith and love for your Savior is more precious than gold! YOU are more precious than gold in your Father's eyes. I know His heart rejoices to be with His son, but He also weeps with you in the lonely nights. May you feel His arms of love around you. His grace like a buoy beneath you. His peace like an anchor for your soul. I pray you go from strength to strength dear Jenny. Your children are blessed by God and they will walk through this with the amazing grace of our Jesus carrying them. Love and Prayers from a sister in Christ
So hard to find words, but know that I am weeping, praising, aching, and praying. So very thankful that Brad is no longer suffering. Praying that God will comfort you, the kiddos, and the whole family. Much love to you all.
Jenny- Your strength and faith are amazing. I can not begin to tell you how sad I am that Brad is no longer with us in body. But, I have no doubt that he is having the time of his life in Heaven. God blessed Brad immensely by putting you in his life. And, all of us who were fortunate enough to know Brad were blessed immeasurably by his friendship, undying Aggie spirit, his sense of humor and most importantly his life he lead for Christ. I'm sorry that I could not be at the memorial service in person, but I was thinking of y'all and praying for you at that time. You, Sandra and David, Zeke and Kaelyn, Bryan and Lisa, Alison and the rest of the family will continue to be in our prayers. I pray God will cradle you in His arms and give you peace and comfort.
Much love,
Danny, Tomilyn, Kaden and Cooper Myre
I am a friend or Eric and Rebecca and have been following your blog over the last months. My co-workers and I were all crying while reading about Brad's passing. We know that he is in Heaven watching over your family now. You have been an inspiration to me and have really helped me gain a new persective on life. I pray that you will have continued strength and comfort each and every day. I think sweet Zeke has such wisdom for such a young boy. What an amazing family you are!
Hi Jenny,
I have NO clue how I found your blog and was even more stunned when I found out you are in Houston (I work downtown, grew up in Houston and now live in Cypress)! Small world, I'd say.
Anyway, I have read almost your entire blog and my face is now streaming with tears. Yours and your children's loss hurts my heart to the core. You are truly a follower of Jesus Christ to have come this far after losing your precious husband. I am in awe of your strength and perseverance in the wake of such a tragedy. I am praying for you, dear Jenny.
Big hugs and many prayers,
Amanda
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