It is with deep sadness that I learned today that little Grace Oughton passed away after her long and courageous fight with cancer. Her family posted this announcement on her website earlier today. We at New Season Church have been praying for healing for Grace for some time and back in 2006 we did a benefit concert for her and her family.
Grace was diagnosed at 19 months and though she was only three years old when she passed away she has influenced many. This little girl was a fighter. She was so very brave. She experienced more in her three years than any child should ever have to experience.
I also remember how this little girl brought people together to fight on her behalf and to support her and her family. As the months went by and she battled this awful disease people's kindness and generosity was on display. Grace brought out the best in people in the midst of her unfortunate sickness. She brought together many communities. She brought together so many different people. She brought together churches who prayed for her, loved her and supported her and her family even when they did not know them personally. Grace as a uniter. It is amazing how God can use such a little girl who spent far too little time with us to change the world. I somehow recall a scripture verse about that..."and a little child shall lead them."
In the midst of deep sadness, questions, and anger there are no easy words or simple explanations and there never will be. Yet, Grace has inherited the promises bought for us all and is with the one who said "let the little children come to me." It is to the promises found in Christ alone that we can only cling in our sadness and bewilderment.
Please continue to pray for the Oughtons. For those who want to stay up-to-date with arrangements and such please visit the Grace Oughton Cancer Foundation website here.
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