Loretta

Yesterday, during the worship service at MBC, a man I know and respect shared a story about his late mother, Loretta. The story he shared touched my heart and brought to mind other memories of her. That is when I knew what I wanted to write about today.

Loretta

by Katie Powner


I didn't know her when her skin was smooth as satin
When her arms still held strength for every chore
I would've loved her then
but in the winter of her life
I don't know if I could've loved her more

The sparkle in her eye was more than mischief
and the smile on her face more than a tease
They were the steadfast joy
of living for her Savior
Whom she found sweeter than an August breeze

She showed me what "through thick and thin" should look like
She taught me purity and peace until
Her form was but a shell, a weakened vessel
then she kept on teaching faith and patience still

"Praise the Lord," she said. "Praise the Lord!"
Even as the light was fading from her eyes
Even as her voice was shrinking to a whisper
She said, "The lights of glory soon are mine."
She said, "Not my will, O Lord, but Thine."

I miss you, Loretta. Thanks for everything.