I will rise

Today is the 12th anniversary of my brother Dan's death of ALS when he was only 52. Remembering that and also the death of my parents last year.

We sang this song today at church. It always makes me think of my dad now. In the last days of his life we had to put his bed close to the floor because we were afraid he'd fall. He couldn't walk without help but he'd always forget that. Every time he'd wake up, he'd fling back the blankets and get ready to get up. We'd say, "Dad, Dad, wait! We need to get someone to help you. We need to push the button. Hold on!" Now when I hear this song, I imagine him rising, and rising, "on eagle's wings," "no more sorrow, no more pain." And for all of them - Dan, Mom, Dad, all those who have gone before us: 

Jesus has overcome

And the grave is overwhelmed

The victory is won

He is risen from the dead.