Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Gibson's memorial & video

Gibson's memorial was amazing.  Being a week after he'd passed we were secretly dreading the day.  We felt as if each day that week we'd gotten a little bit stronger.  I was worried that the emotions of going through the whole day would just knock me down again.  And yes, it was emotional.  But the best way I can describe the day was Beautiful.  Yes, even in the midst of great loss the beautiful love & grace of God abounded.  We were surrounded by those we hold so dear.  They all came together in an unimaginable way.  Our families gathered around and came from far. My dearest friends from Dallas & Nashville were there.  My MOMS club, our parent's friends, Daniel's co-workers, Gibson's nurses & doctors... the list goes on.  
And our amazing church family came together to honor Gibson and his sweet life in the most touching ways.  The service was just perfect.  They went above & beyond what we could hope for.
The night Gibson died the hospital placed a card with a beautiful tree of life on his door.  It spoke to my heart immediately.  I knew I wanted the service to be focused around a tree and Revelations 21:5, "Behold I am making all things new... these words are trustworthy and true."  From there our extremely talented friend Megan came up with the beautiful tree design.  (She will be selling prints soon for those who've asked!)  We knew what songs had spoken to us and our wonderful worship team (who are dear friends) pulled it all together and honored us with their talents.  Morgan & the team at CCC spoke to our hearts and prayed for us and we were all so moved by the sweet time together.
At the end of the day Daniel & I laid in bed and cried, not out of pain, but out of love.  We felt so completely overwhelmed in the very best way.
The tree


 Daniel's sister Sarah painted this gorgeous tree and everyone was asked to fingerprint and sign in that way.  It is so special to us.  
    
I will share more in the days to come about all who have blessed us so much during this time.

For now we wanted to share the video shown at the end of the service.  This is to the song "Beautiful Things" by Gungor. 


5 comments:

Unknown said...

Allen and Beth

The video was beautiful, as I heard the service was. I just want to start by saying how sorey I am for your loss. My heart hurts each time I think of you and the pain your facing losing such a precious gift.

However I want to end by saying...your response to what is the greatest loss of this world...has left me in awe. Your love for the life you still have...for each other...for your children...the strength of your hearts...and ability to praise Him...your faith in Him. I am 1800 miles away and you have touched me. It has changed me. Gibsons life...has touched mine, despite the miles, through you.

I pray for you both. I wish all His love and peace to you and your family.

It's About Time . . . said...

What a beautiful baby boy. Gibson's eyes - just stunning. I know your heart will be forever heavy. How we all wish we could have changed the outcome.

On a positive note, I just can't help but think that each time he opened his eyes and looked at your family, he knew he belonged; he knew he was very loved. You are the perfect family to share his experience. What a blessing you were to him during his sweet life.

Despite your suffering, much good has come and will come. Keep the faith and know that you are all thought of and loved.

We'll always remember little Gibson and be thankful for his inspiration.

Hugs to all,
Tina Fuller-Jones & family

Anonymous said...

Allen & Beth, I can't imagine your emotions each time you view this video. It is precious and to know that little Gibson is resting in the arms of Jesus without all the tubes etc. It is a hard thing but God has been with you through this journey, and also your family. We love all of you. Ginny Redfearn @ Dallas First Assembly of God.

Erin said...

Beth,
My prayers continue to be with you and your precious family as you walk this journey, and experience God's abundant love and peace. "He will keep in perfect peace, him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts you" (Isaiah 26:3).

Much love,
Erin

The Owen Family said...

Beth, I've said many prayers for your family. I can't imagine what it's been like for you and you're family. I'll continue to pray for healing. Thanks for sharing Gibson's story.
~Leanne Thomas Owen