3:36pm
There is nothing more powerful than forgiveness. It results in freedom for the giver. They know that judgement is not their problem or responsibility and can move on.
While Hannelie Groenewald is mourning the loss of her husband and her beloved two children, by God’s grace and through His Spirit, she has forgiven those who killed her family. Citizen.co.za published an online report of Hannelie saying she believed her family did not die in vain.
Video still from www.citizen.co.za
The Groenewald family did not have any intention of leaving Afghanistan and lived freely in Kabul for 12 years. She was asked if she would go back. She replied that she is now grieving and needs to spend this time with her family, but if God called her back, she would go. She also said she believes that the death of her family is part of a greater divine plan. I agree.
God never wastes pain.
EWN also published some comments from Hannelie. She spoke about what happened, saying there were only two Taliban insurgents. They climbed over the wall and when the door guard approached them, they shot him dead. They then entered the building and shot Werner. The two teenagers were shot upstairs. They died in the only part of the house that was not burned. This meant that Hannelie was able to hug her family and say goodbye to them. So heartbreaking, but so important.
Their memorial service was held this morning at the Moreleta DRC church, where Werner was very involved as a Pastor. According to the latest press release from Associated Press, the Pastor lit three candles and symbolically blew each of them out. Hannelie remained composed during the service. According to the Associated Press report, there had been a threat of an attack in Kabul on 29th November. To plan for it, Hannelie, a medical doctor went to a meeting at a hotel as part of the medical team set up to cope with an emergency should it arise. Little did she know that the attack would happen, but it would be on her own family.
Pierre Korkie’s memorial service was also held today in the Free State. A sad day all round. A new normal begins for Hannelie and for Pierre’s wife and children. It’s a slow process. The pain is intense, but has to be worked through at a pace unique to all of them. Everyone grieves at their own pace. One thing is for sure…
Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
And He will work out His plan for both these widows.
Keep the faith. It’s not about now. It’s about eternity.
God bless you!
In His Grip,
Helga xx 🙂
Sources:
Gratitude Pic….friendships
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