Monday of Week Two
A Journey of Love
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” —Psalm 34:18
A day that will live in my heart for eternity. On June 28, 2000, our first-born child Rachel Suzanne Goodman was due to enter this world in the loving arms of Jennifer and Greg Goodman. Unexpectedly, our child’s heart just stopped during labor and my precious wife and I had no clue what was going on. We lost our precious baby in the blink of an eye and at that point I thought my world was ending.
My pain and grief in that moment was so raw, so deeply human. Losing a child is an unimaginable heartbreak, and I completely wrestled with anger, doubt, and guilt. I believed 100% that this was my fault and that this tragedy came as punishment for past mistakes. I became very angry with God and could not understand why the breath of this innocent child was taken away. I resented God, I became angry with the medical staff, and believed at that point that God didn’t think I deserved this precious little girl. I spent the next couple of months questioning my faith and my purpose here on earth.
God began working in my life immediately and showed me through individuals and other believers that God doesn’t work that way. Even when I didn’t understand why things happen, He remained present and forever holding me through the storms of life.
God’s peace and love carry so much weight, reality, love, and faith. The depth of our loss is unimaginable, but the way I found God’s presence even in the darkest moment is so much more powerful. The love I have for Rachel and Jennifer is undeniable, and my choice to trust in God’s control, despite the pain, is a testament to the strength God has given me and the power of His unending love.
I would like everyone to know that no matter what happens in our daily life, God’s peace and love will always win over. I also know that time doesn’t erase the pain of the loss, I have found peace knowing that Rachel’s short life had infinite meaning. She was loved beyond measure, and she remains a part of my story, my purpose, my faith, and my heart forever.
Author: Greg Goodman
Personal Reflection:
Think about a time when you felt deep sorrow or loss. How did God’s presence
sustain you? If you are carrying grief, take a moment to invite God into that space and trust in His love.
Daily Action:
Take time today to honor and cherish a lost loved one.
