God’s Spirit eases world’s pain, widows reminded

While the reality of life on this earth can be a source of pain, “God’s Word is constant,” Melissa Meredith told a gathering of Widows’ Might members during their fall conference, Sept. 14, on the campus of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Meredith, Women’s Auxiliary coordinator at the seminary, recalled how God’s love comforted her when she lost her mother three years ago.

“He really does lead us beside quiet waters and restore our soul,” she said. “He is our treasure in times of loss.”

The Widows’ Might prayer ministry is made up of widows committed to praying for Southwestern Seminary. Widows receive a monthly newsletter filled with prayer requests for the institution, students, faculty, administration, staff, alumni, and their families. Events are hosted at the seminary twice a year for widows to enjoy fellowship with one another and gather encouragement from guest speakers.

Welcoming the conference attendees, Adam W. Greenway, president of Southwestern Seminary, praised the women of Widows’ Might for their support. “Every time you raise a prayer for Southwestern Seminary, we feel it here on campus,” he said. “The greatest blessing we can have here at Southwestern Seminary is for you to pray for us.”

Greenway also expressed gratitude for the women’s financial contributions, which lessen the burden of cost on seminary students.

Following Greenway’s welcome, Meredith, this year’s guest speaker, related her experience with her mother, who was diagnosed with ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2013, the year Meredith completed her Master of Divinity at Southwestern Seminary. When her mother’s diagnosis was confirmed, “we grieved, but the Spirit of God comforted us,” Meredith recalled.

As her mother’s health waned, Meredith became her full-time caregiver. “This time became the sweetest and grandest of treasures the Lord has given me,” she said. “As her body declined, her spirit remained strong. For three years, I recorded every detail.”

“As I watched my mom become trapped in her own body, I saw the Spirit of Christ renewing her soul every day,” Meredith said. “Grace won then, and grace wins now. We chose joy every day.”

As her mother lay in pain, Meredith said, “I watched her mouth move—she was praying. Women are mighty prayer warriors.”

In July 2016, God called her mother home, Meredith said. “As she breathed her last breath, her heart stopped, and my heart stopped. And she was home. Because He lives, she is alive.”