When the Expected Comes Unexpectedly

My wonderful father-in-law had been struggling with his health for the past 3 years.  Each time when we went back to the States, we noticed that his condition had worsen.  He interacted with people less and less. From walking with a wobble, he soon had to use a walker and then was confined to a wheelchair and then to a bed.  It was so difficult to see this happening as he used to be so active.  We knew that he was ready to go "home". 

Just before the winter break, Dad Alagata was in the hospital again. When he was released from the hospital, they put him on hospice care in his own home. Mom Alagata took care of him, 24/7.  He was always appreciative of her love and companionship. 

When we went back this past Chinese New Year, he was very responsive and alert.  He was confined to a bed that was set up in the living room and Alan would hoist him up to set him in his wheelchair so that he can sit by the window to get some sunshine.  He seemed to enjoy having people around, but tired easily.  He lost a lot of weight but appeared to be in good spirit.  Alan found a Christian radio station and he enjoyed listening as he slept most of the day. 

When we left in February to come back to Taiwan, we bid him "see you this summer".  But in the middle of March, Mom called and said that he was in the hospital again and this time, his vital organs seemed to be shutting down.  We knew that his earthly tent was diminishing and that he was so ready to go "home", and yet, it was still such a shock to receive the phone call.  Alan booked a ticket home for that Sunday, but on Friday, March 15th, he crossed the River Jordan and ran into the arms of His Loving Heavenly Father.  His legs were fine. His eye sight was as bright as ever.  It is for those who are on this side of Heaven who grieve.  The Memorial Service was held this past Saturday on March 23rd.  And the words from the song, The Old Rugged Cross, still rings in my ears --

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suffering and shame,
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain

So I'll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange some day for a crown.

To the old rugged cross I will ever be true,
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He'll call me some day to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I'll share.

God called and you answered! Farewell, our beloved Dad Alagata...

Seek Him First!