My mother went home this afternoon surrounded by family. My father was holding her hand and we did not realize that she was gone. But, we know that we shall see her again one day since she has gone to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I kept having the words of one of my favorite hymns run thru my head, Face To Face. I tried to sing it, but broke down.
My stepmother told me something very comforting that happened when her mother died. She was at home, lying on the couch, when suddenly she opened her eyes and looked at her daughter and smiled and said "I understand now, and you have nothing to fear." Then she closed her eyes and breathed her last breath.
Deb, I'm glad that you have the assurance that your mom had placed her faith in Jesus. While you will still grieve her passing, you have the assurance that you will see her again.
It's also a blessing that she was surrounded by family. When my mother died, she was alone. However, I am assured that she has gone to be with her Savior.
John 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.