October 3, 2020, was the saddest day of my life; watching my number one cheerleader and friend crossover to the other side broke my heart.  She was the one person who had known me the longest, and she had sacrificed more for me than anyone else. My dear mother, Mrs. Edlena Davis had finally left this side of pain and trials to enter into her eternal rest.  I was extremely sorrowful, and I felt like I had a deep hole in my soul. Yet, as I looked at her body lying peacefully in her bed while  praise and worship music was softly playing, a burst of joy rose up in me and I exclaimed, “Mama, you made it!”  I was very happy for her because I knew she had prepared herself for eternity!  I had heard her pray fervently whether she was in the kitchen, in her bedroom, or in church.  In addition, she talked about Jesus being her friend, and she showed me how to have a relationship with him, not just be a church attender.  She even had spiritual encounters throughout her life that she didn’t like to share because she thought people would think she was crazy or wouldn’t believe her.  I always told her if it happened in the bible, I believe it can happen now!  Here’s one account that she had:

“I was in bed, and I felt my breath leave my body. Then suddenly, I was standing in front of Jesus. He was wearing a white robe and he was glowing. I was running so fast toward him, and I didn’t have any pain in my knees. Jesus held up his hand and pointed down.  I said, “Oh no! I’m going there to hell!” He shook his head and said, “No. Your time is not yet.” Then, he blew on me, and I was back in my body.”

Apostle Paul confirms her story with a similar experience in II Corinthians 12:2.  He states: “I was caught up to the third heaven fourteen years ago. Whether I was in my body or out of my body, I don’t know—only God knows.”

My mother lived a full and long life of having an experiential and authentic relationship with her Redeemer. She persevered and fought the good fight of faith. Since I observed the fruit and power of the Holy Spirit operating in her life, I can say without a shadow of a doubt, she was ready to meet her Lord and Savior!  How about you – are you prepared for eternity?

PRAY THIS PRAYER: “Father the world says it’s crazy to believe in you, but I ask that you cause me to know you better. Open my eyes, so I may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. I repent of my sins and ask you to forgive me of everything I have said and done that has offended you. Wash me thoroughly and make me brand new.  I surrender my heart and will to you Lord.  May I never be ashamed of your name!  In Jesus’ name, I pray.  Amen.”