Grandma Pie: Boldness and Bear Hugs

One of the first times I ever walked in our church, she came right up to us. Hugged us as if we were long lost relatives.  Put strong arms around us that somehow melted all fears….and said….

“You are welcome here.”  And how love melts away all fear.  And how many want and so desperately need to hear that they are welcome? Especially in the church?

And it wasn’t until years later, the truth to me was made clear….These pastor arms wrap around everyone God leads her to.

We were no different.

And I found that as arms gripped tight….she was also doing what wise intercessors do….

Praying.

And I knew it was more.  Because those hugs shed the pain that attached from the world.

And people seemed always freer.  Lighter……after an encounter with the one that became known as….

Grandma Pie.

And her name fit her.  She was joyful.  Sweet.  Hugged our new foster daughter right off her feet….the first time she saw her.

She became a grandma to many.  Started a foster parent and adoption ministry.  And one Sunday…..only a few weeks ago…..really…..

We all gathered around her. Those adopted.  Many foster children.  Their families. And I saw her smile beaming….As she professed eagerly with delight….

“This makes me so happy.” 

And I knew it was because the vision God gave her had become a reality.  To see a small, safe church flooded with foster children from throughout our society.

And I remember the Sunday she motioned me over.  To pray with her for a young girl.  Frail.  Sick in Spirit.

And her words spoke specific to what this girls was facing. Without even knowing.  And the girl started weeping.

Then, she did something really bold.  Something unheard of……She called the boyfriend over.  This girl on the edge of trauma. Emotionally depleted.  And she said to this young man. Frankly.

You need to stop sleeping with her!  If you really love her….you will come along side her and support her.  And leave her body alone.  And I hope God heals you both.  And that my greatest joy would be to see you both back here in a few more years…..married.  But, until then….don’t touch her.

And I almost fell over….right off my seat.

What kind of pastor speaks to people so frankly these days?  Who cuddles a sobbing girl in one arm and speaks so candidly to her boyfriend at the same time…..

Loving.  Gently.  But, not one bid intimated. Bold.  Without any fear of man.

And I knew this women heard from heaven.  For only heaven could have such heart.  And boldness.  And power…..all at the same time.

And I went to see her before she parted.  Last words she proclaimed as I walked out her door…..


“Those who have been through great hardships are the ones who live with great compassion and mercy for others.”

And she shared of her hardships.  And I remember…..the feet that always grew from her faith. And I learned about the “forgiven much”.  And understood better….why she loved.

So well.

But, yesterday, she departed.  Left quickly.  In twenty-four hours. Fell on the floor when her husband found her.  And they airlifted her to the big city.

And how God called her to heaven. So sudden. And what will we be doing when God calls us?

Sunday prior preaching…..just hours before her death……

Live for heaven.  Do all you can do for eternity. This world is just a glimpse…..a small portion of what we’re created for.

And I am thankful.  Thankful for her ministry.

For the woman who saw me…..when I crawled in with hurt mounting…..Pain that could only be seen through a woman who had God eyes…..

And I am thankful……for her legacy.  For the love of…..

Grandma Pi.

And may we all be like her….

Ultimately…..being more bold, spirit led…..and more ultimately….

like Christ!

Yes, for the life of Grandma Pie….

I am thankful.