Thursday 3 December 2015

A death in the family

James Tusing.  Died 2nd December 2015.

I count myself as an honorary member of the Tusing family after they opened their generous hearts to me while hosting in their home in Churachandpur, Manipur for some months in 1996.

Two years ago we as a family made a visit to Manipur, 17 years after I had last been there.  We were once again hosted by uncle Lalzakung Tusing.  Living on the ground floor were James and Kim.


I have just found out that James died last night.  A deep well of sadness has opened up again.

There are things that we just wish were different, if only a different road were taken.  There are prayers that parents made late at night for their children and we wonder what happened.  There are sorrows that defy easy answers, that gnaw deep within.

Far away in Australia, Jame's brother Philip has just shared this photo of him and his kid brother.


How can we sing the Lord's song in a strange land?

How do we process grief when so far away, when so apparently helpless?

One thing is sure, one thing is clear.

We serve One for whom tears were not strangers.  A man of sorrows, acquainted with grief.

His tears mingle with ours, and with those of dear Uncle and Auntie in the wordlessness of the regret we share.  With his brothers Philip and Jacob and their families.  With those who loved James and prayed for him.

We know, that One day will come.  Will come.

When sorrow and grief are no more.  When He will wipe away the salty-bitter stains off our faces.

This day we walk through the valley.

Holding His hand.

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