RC Sproul, Jr. Demonstrates that It's Okay to Be Sad When Mourning Loss (Even Over Time)

pic of Dr. R.C. Sproul, Jr. from his blog:  http://rcsprouljr.com/blog
The story behind this post:
He lost his wife to cancer and his daughter with disabilities less than a year apart.

His wife Denise died of cancer on Dec. 18, 2011.  
Daughter Shannon died October 3, 2012 at the age of 15.  She was born with a condition called Lissencephaly, a condition that left her disabled.  Lissencephaly, literally meaning smooth brain, is a rare birth abnormality of the brain that results in profound mental retardation and severe seizures.

R.C. Sproul, Jr. Demonstrates that It's Okay to Be Sad When Mourning Loss

It's okay to be sad and lonesome months and even years after your loved one's passing.  This is what a fellow traveler in that pain had to say.  It's from someone who believes in God's sovereignty and His purposes even in our earthly struggles.

It’s the Little Things; OK, It’s the Big Things Too  from R.C. Sproul Jr. Apr 27, 2013


Joni Earekson Tada's program featured Shannon and the family.


When Disability Hits Home — Shannon Sproul from Ligonier Ministries on Vimeo.


This video segment is a moving tribute to the idea that Shannon and all those like her are not accidents but little ones born into the world with God's image. They have inherent value and bring much blessing to the families that are privileged to have them.  This video also addresses man's confusion in seeing only the tragedy not the beauty of God's sovereign plan.

It is my prayer that this post moves us to intercede for the Sprouls and all who live with loss that is profound.  I pray that we would be moved to pray for those we know who have special needs children and that we would be able to see the beauty beyond the tragedy.  I hope that those who are struggling with personal loss or pain are somehow encouraged by the journey of the Sprouls.

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