Have you ever had a friend in your life of the opposite sex who has become like a brother or a sister to you?

I have had a couple of guys in my life who I would call “brother” more than my own blood brothers which is very sad, but there it is — the truth.

Today, the only guy that has felt like a brother to me for the last 13 years passed away very quickly from liver cancer. Very quickly since he just found out he had it a couple of months ago. But thankfully, my husband and I and our two kids went to see him and his wife, my dear friend, Jackie, after church last Sunday. I am so thankful we did. I could tell he was bad off, but I honestly didn’t think the Lord would take him home this quickly.

It was hard to hear my friend, Jackie, cry on the phone today. She rarely ever has anything to cry about. She has always been a strong woman, one of those people who can let most difficulties roll off her back quickly. That’s something I’ve always admired about her. But the amazing thing was how she talked about all the wonderful things God did in the last few days. She was with her husband to the very end. And fortunately, when she called our Pastor, he arrived at their home just in time to be with her when Rick went home to glory.

Anyway, Rick was only 63. Sometimes we don’t understand God’s plan or why He allows some to get sick and go so quick or just have an illness that drags on and on. But all I know is I have learned that God always knows best. He loves us unconditionally and is there for whatever we can’t handle. When we are weak, He is strong. I have experienced this many times in my own life. He is full of grace and mercy.

I don’t think it has fully hit me yet, though, because I haven’t cried much yet. I know Rick is in the arms of his Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, and that is my comfort. That in and of itself makes me so happy for him.

I love you, Jackie. I love you, too, Rick. Rest in peace, my brother.