Kisses to Heaven -- Sue Payne

And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Ephesians 3:18-19

She sat in the front row and from where I was sitting I had the privilege of witnessing one of the most beautiful and touching scenes I’ve ever encountered. It was a private, intimate moment and I almost felt as though I was intruding, but as she tenderly blew kisses towards heaven, I was caught up in the moment and was blessed.

Amy was 13 years old when she lost her mother, Cindy, to pancreatic cancer. The solid foundation of love and faith were obvious as family and friends grieved, remembered, and celebrated her mother’s life.

As I sat in the midst of this beautiful tribute observing the peaceful presence that brightly reflected from her young daughter’s face, I began to wonder what a mother would say and communicate to prepare a child to face such a loss. It was clear to me that Amy’s mother must have given her several priceless gifts.

Roots are established when loving care is given in the growth process. Love grows deep roots that give power to withstand the storms of life. Surrounded by the support of others who are deeply rooted in love provides the strength and understanding to grasp the revelation of God’s love and blessings.

God’s love is wide. It touches every part of our lives, custom fit to each one of us personally. God’s love is long. As long as we live, walk, and continue to breathe, He is faithful never to leave us or forsake us. His love is high and deep. From celebration and joy to our deepest sorrows and disappointments He reaches and understands the most intimate places of our hearts.

I am certain that Cindy prayed earnestly for her family to be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. The radiant presence I saw that day as kisses were blown heavenward surely was the work of the Spirit of God, planted, rooted, and grown up through the heartfelt and earnest prayers of a faithful mother.

In Memory of Cindy Dill

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.