It is with such joy that I think of Cathy finally pain-free, body perfected and soul filled with joy, at total peace in heaven with the Lord. Except I believe it may take a little while before heaven is back to peaceful. I'll explain.
Because of her illnesses, Cathy spent much time in the comfort of her bed, resting and praying for her body to heal. She was often too miserable to even talk on the phone. But then there were the times that God gave her a reprieve, and she was able to be more herself. That's when we knew to "watch out, Cathy's feeling good!"
When Cathy's body and spirit allowed, she was a shocking whirlwind of energy and productivity. Suddenly, she wanted to put legs on her ideas and run full speed ahead, pushing all mundane physical needs aside in order to get her goals accomplished-- NOW! She innately knew exactly what she needed to get done and in what order. No agency, organization or business could stand in her way. No price tag existed that could not be re-bargained. No one who was "too busy today" would thwart her. Anyone with a phone number was at risk to be scooped up into the excitement and intensity of the project, like a growing snowball speeding down a steep mountainside. If it didn't sound doable at first, she would push hard to convince you otherwise, and then prove it-- with or without you.
Whenever Cathy realized something amazing, it was all over her face. Her eyes would open wide and her mouth would drop. Her expression would briefly form into a question mark, then morph into understanding, and finally relax into delight as she gave verbal credit to the Father. She could not wait to share great news with others. Her Texan twang would excitedly ring over the phone line, “Y’all are not gonna believe this! Ain’t God awesome?”
Imagining Cathy meeting Jesus is not hard. I can just see her suddenly stop looking for her cell phone as she catches a glimpse of His glory. Her eyes are wide and her chin drops as He gently guides her in through heaven’s gate. She can’t believe it as He draws her to his breast, beautiful angels in silver gowns all around. She begins to cry in His arms, joyful tears soaking his pure white robes.
Suddenly, she jumps bolt upright and exclaims, “Lord Jesus! I’m gonna wash this gown for you. Or, actually, where’s Dustin? I’ll just have him go get me some fabric and I’ll make you a brand new gown, and we can get some more silver stuff for the angels, or maybe gold…”
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