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Clock struck for Cinderella

23rd May 2008

Clock struck for Cinderella

posted in Family-Friendly Morning Show, Music & Artists, News |

Chapman Family 5-year-old Maria Sue, youngest daughter of Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman, was ushered into a heavenly kingdom on May 21, 2008. (read news accounts ). Our condolences are with the Chapman family in this time of separation from their little girl. We know that one day their family will be re-united.

See below to send your encouragement to the family…

I remember when Steven Curtis Chapman first came on the scene in the late ’80s with the song called "Weak Days". The chorus says:

I gotta keep my eyes on Jesus
Through the weak days;
In a world where we really don’t belong,
I’ve discovered if I keep my eyes on Jesus
Through the weak days,
Then even on the weak days He’ll make me strong.

There are those kind of days for all of us. While we know Jesus sees us through everything, the relationships we have with family and friends certainly help a great deal, too.

The blog for Maria set up on Steven’s site has received thousands of comments. I’ll share one of those, from the Weightmann’s in Oklahoma, here:

Dear and beloved Chapmans,

The stroke of midnight came too soon.

The grand ball came to an expected and unexplainable close for your Cinderella. And like the story-book Cinderella, the magic came to an end, but in a different way.

Your Cinderella exchanged her beautiful gown, not for common clothes, but for a spotless, white robe.

Her glass slippers for a street paved with gold.

Her tuxedoed attendants for a host of saints and a chorus of angels.

Her distant prince for the ever-present Prince of Peace.

Her bejeweled chariot for a heavenly mansion prepared since the foundation of the world.

And she exchanged her gleaming white horses for the reality that she never needs to rush off again – she is now home.

Really, the grand ball came to a close for those left behind. But for Cinderella it is just beginning.

Because Maria’s blog is running slow from all the comment traffic (more than 20,000 in less than 2 days!!), you are welcome to post your encouragement for the Chapmans to our comment section below.

Another gesture of kindness would be to share your encouragement by leaving a message at 417-886-9388. We will bundle them into a "verbal bouquet" and forward it on to the Chapmans.

There are currently 56 responses to “Clock struck for Cinderella”

Why not let us know what you think by adding your own comment! Your opinion is as valid as anyone elses, so come on... let us know what you think.

  1. 1 On May 23rd, 2008, Gaby Popescu said:

    Sir,

    I am writing these word from Romania. I have three little daughters and I love them so much! There are not many words to say in this time, just that you and your family are in my prayers. I listened and enjoyed very much your music.
    May God comfort you and you wife in these moments!

  2. 2 On May 23rd, 2008, Shirley Scott said:

    Heartfelt condolences being sent to the Chapman family from our family. While we grieve the loss of such a precious child, we rejoice that she is with HIM!

  3. 3 On May 23rd, 2008, Denise Koechner said:

    Dear Chapmans, we are praying for you and so sorry your family is experiencing such a tragedy! Your ministry has touched many people and your work is greatly appreciated! We genuinely care! Sincerely, Denise, Quincy & Nick

  4. 4 On May 23rd, 2008, mike koch said:

    A few years ago I read the CCM Magazine article on the adoption of Maria. It hit me straight in the heart. I’ve never wanted to be a daddy, but after reading that article I fell in love with the idea of adopting a little girl from China. My physical restrictions make that impossible to do, but I haved prayed for those girls on several occasions. When my wife called and told me what she had heard I just broke into tears. A little girl that I had never met still held a special place in my heart. I know that I will eventually meet this beautiful little girl one day when my Father calls me home. For all the Chapman family, you are in our prayers.

  5. 5 On May 23rd, 2008, Deb said:

    Dear Chapman Family,
    It has been many years, but I had the honor of meeting Steven a few times in the 80’s and have always been so very blessed by your music. The lives you have touched is something that you cannot even imagine. It is now time for Steven and his family to receive the blessings and prayers from all over the world for comfort and peace during this most difficult time. May God provide you with all that you need during this time.

    Deb

  6. 6 On May 23rd, 2008, Jennifer said:

    Dear Chapman Family,

    We are so sorry for your loss. The Lord will be your strength and comfort in this time of sorrow.So many times through our storms, the Lord encouraged and inspired us through your songs. I know he will carry through this time. We love you and your family. We all will be praying for you.

  7. 7 On May 23rd, 2008, Katrina Green said:

    Dear Steven and family,
    I am so sorry for your loss of Maria. I have a 25 year old daughter and one of my biggest fears is that something will happen to her. I also recently lost my Mother and I know that even though I was not ready to lose her that God needed her at home, and that has comforted me.

    I also want to let your son know that even though he was driving the suv God was in control. He could have stopped the suv in time but he must have a bigger plan than we know about. please tell your son to forgive himself.

    May God comfort and bless your family in the future just as did has in the past by bringing Maria Sue into your life.

  8. 8 On May 23rd, 2008, Elena A. said:

    Dear Chapman family,
    Please accept my family’s most sincere condolences. My words cannot express the sorrow that we share with your family. We have children of own.
    We hope that the bible verse below will bring some comfort to your family.
    May God continue to bless your family and ministry.

    Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. Psalm 116:15

  9. 9 On May 23rd, 2008, Jamie said:

    Dear Family in Christ,
    I want to say that I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine what you are feeling, but I know you will all get through this tragedy. I will keep you in my prayers and pray that each one of you get the strength and encouragement that you need. God loves you and He will take care of your daughter/sister until you see her again. God bless your family.
    ~Jamie

  10. 10 On May 23rd, 2008, Melissa said:

    Chapman family,
    I am so sorry to hear about the lose of your little girl. Having a daughter of my own, I cannot imagine what your family must be going through. I will be praying for your family during this hard time.

  11. 11 On May 23rd, 2008, Mona Hebden said:

    Dear Steven and Family,

    I pray God holds each of you and meets your every need. I pray He brings comfort. May your precious memories bring you joy as your hearts heal. May your faith subtain you. Cling to Him. Times of sorrow can bring a family even closer, I pray that is the case for you.

    Maria Sue is dancing in heaven, waiting for the rest of you.

    God be with you.

  12. 12 On May 24th, 2008, Leigh said:

    Dear Chapman Family,

    There are no words that I can say that will help but know how truly sorry I am for this tragedy. Your precious angel is in the arms of Jesus. His arms are wrapped around you too. He sees every tear. I cannot imagine your sorrow but I pray for you and your family…for your hearts and your comfort.
    You have been such a wonderful blessing to so many and I pray for God’s blessings on you.

  13. 13 On May 24th, 2008, Shannon McCann said:

    “The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you.” Ephesians 3:20
    This passage has seen my family through many “unbearable” times. We are all praying for you, lifting your sorrows to the Father, and knowing He will sustain you. Your ministry through music and your very life has inspired millions. Know that everyone of those millions are with you in this moment. God Bless!
    The McCann Family

  14. 14 On May 24th, 2008, Nadine Herald said:

    Dear and grieving Chapman family,

    I know all of you are nearly struck down by this calamity, and I can only imagine what you must be going through. As a counselor and Christian, I am praying for all of you and most especially for the budding young man whose actions touched off all of the grief. This would be a devastating thing for any one of us to have caused, and all the more for a young person.

    Stephen, I have been so blessed by your song, With Hope. I pray that its message is in your heart today.

  15. 15 On May 24th, 2008, Pat Auston said:

    Dear Chapman family,
    I do feel your sorrow as I lost my own daughter 17 months ago. The Lord has given me strength and increased my purpose while I am in this life.
    I will keep all of you in prayer, especially your son, who might feel responsible. I pray for strength and healing for him and for him to realize that this was just an accident and all is in God’ hands.
    I thank you for your ministry. You have been there for so many and helped increase their faith.
    I pray for God’s loving arms to hold you all.

  16. 16 On May 24th, 2008, Cindi Oliveria said:

    Dear Dear Chapman Family,
    I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. If there is a good thing to this happening. Your Cinderella is Home and At Peace with Our Lord and Savior. I know that the ones left here on earth are the ones that have a hard job in the mos. and years to come. May our Great Lord Bless you and guide you thru this time. May he ease your hearts. May your son also be relieved of the pain and sorrow. We all want to help. I know we all can as our God is so good to answer our prayers. We all will continue to pray for you all. May our Lord bless and keep you all…..God Bless

  17. 17 On May 24th, 2008, carol said:

    I pray that the hurt will go and the emptiness will be filled by the memories that your little angel gave.
    Lean on god and too forgive your son because he too is hurting.God is holding your little angel and they both are smiling on you all for the great life that you did give her and she I’m sure has forgiven..Smile to the heavens and let god take the pain a way..

  18. 18 On May 24th, 2008, K Kellogg said:

    My prayers are with each one of you as you grieve the loss of the tiny treasure God blessed you with, Maria Sue.

    I pray that every member of your family, especially your son, would receive individual grief counseling to help you through this time. Because we each grieve differently, a loss can cause added stress on the family relationships. It is so easy for the enemy to coerce us into playing the blame game.

    During this time when it is hardest to trust in God, nearly impossible to bring yourself to read His Word and talk to Him without being angry at the events He has allowed to unfold in your lives, this is the time that all those whose lives you have touched are offering up intercessory prayer for you.

  19. 19 On May 24th, 2008, Ravi Nerella said:

    Dear Steven and family,

    I grieve at the news of your loss. Your song Cinderella has made me realize how important it
    is to spend time with our children and to treasure each moment and not take them for granted.
    God has blessed my wife and I with two beautiful daughters and so I can imagine your pain.
    I pray that God will give the comfort that only He can for you family during this time of
    sorrow.

    Your family will be in our prayers

    Ravi

  20. 20 On May 24th, 2008, Kim said:

    While our earthly words don’t make things any easier, God’s heavenly arms do. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

  21. 21 On May 24th, 2008, rebekah said:

    Hi I am very sorry to hear about your little girl and I will be praying for you and your family. All you can do is keep praying and seeking God and you will be able to see her again.

  22. 22 On May 24th, 2008, Sue Twigger said:

    We have 4 children with the youngest being 7 years old. I cannot imagine losing a child, or what you and your family must be going through at this time, but please know that the Lord is watching over you and that the joy of the Lord is our strength through every circumstance that our lives encounter. Please also know that we will continue to raise you up and keep you in our prayers. Blessings to you.

  23. 23 On May 24th, 2008, Marshall J. Biesen said:

    Words fail me.

    Yours in Christ,

    Bassplayer

  24. 24 On May 24th, 2008, Deanna said:

    Words cannot convey the sorrow we know you are experiencing right now. I’m so glad we serve a Sovereign loving heavenly Father who we can run too in our time of need. So run to Him and just hold on tight because HE is the one that will carry you. Our prayers are with you now and in the coming months as you allow yourself time to heal. May your son too, allow himself to forgive himself and to heal as only Jesus desires to do for him. You are precious in His sight and I am asking the Lord to take something so tragic and truly work it all for His glory and honor. Because of the loving heavenly Father we know and serve. It’s wonderful to have a BLESSED HOPE that soon we will all be together again. I pray for grace, and peace to flood your hearts and minds during this time of grief. May HIS strength and grace be ALL SUFFICIENT to you and your family. Blessings to you all.

  25. 25 On May 24th, 2008, Deanna said:

    May you know the sustaining grace and strength of our Heavenly Father at this time of such great loss. His grace is all sufficient in your time of need. Our prayers are with you and your family at this time and in the months to come. As you walk through the days, may you feel our sovereign Lord’s love and presence with you to undergird and carry you in your time of need. May your son allow the Lord to heal him and to be able to forgive himself because of the love you all have for him and one another at this time. Jesus is there to carry you and mend your broken hearts. That is our prayer for you. The memories will last and be so very precious but may your hearts be healed because of HIM who promises us a BLESSED HOPE of His soon return when there will be no more good-byes, no more tears. Blessings on you and your family!

  26. 26 On May 24th, 2008, Misty and Sarah said:

    Dear Precious Chapman Family~
    We as well as a whole country of adoptive families THANK YOU for all that you have done for us. We grieve for you and we can personally see the Mighty Hand of God sweeping this nation with your story. Right now at this very moment you are being loved! You all have always been such an inspiration to so many. We pray that we can rise up and carry some of your burden for you through prayer. We at the Mighty Peterson Family Love you all.
    In Him~Misty

  27. 27 On May 25th, 2008, Ashley said:

    She’s dancing with angels now. You’re all in my thoughts and prayers.

    Love,
    Ashley

  28. 28 On May 25th, 2008, Karen Zastrow said:

    This is an overwhelming sorrow for your entire family. My prayers are with you every day. We can trust our Lord to bring great purpose from this horrendous pain. Jesus is our Healer; may He heal each of you. And may you cling to Him and to each other at this time.

  29. 29 On May 25th, 2008, Lisa Verploeg said:

    May the Lord bless you and keep you.. and grant you His peace. Our firstborn daughter went to be with Jesus at age 10. She too was struck by a car. I would never wish this on my worst enemy, yet I can rejoice in knowing she is in the arms of her Savior. When I look back on that time, what I remember most is God’s mercy and grace toward us.

    I pray the same for you. He will bring you through this and you will see good (Rom. 8:28) if you seek Him. Pray earnestly that He will teach you whatever wisdom He has for you and that He will use this in and through you to further His kingdom. He will carry you through this fire and you will be refined to reflect His image (Mal. 3:3). The key is rest in His sovereignty and love.

  30. 30 On May 25th, 2008, Makenzie said:

    She is in a better place with God now. You are in everyone’s prayers.

  31. 31 On May 25th, 2008, Devery Mills said:

    Chapman Family,
    There are no words that can express the feelings of the heart during this time of tragic loss. But, within the arms of Jesus comfort can be found. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and my you find blessed peace and comfort from our heavenly father as you carry on with your lives. God Bless You All!!

  32. 32 On May 25th, 2008, Farrell,Renee said:

    Since hearing of your loss I have prayed for your entire family. May God wrap his arms of love around you during this time of sadness and lift you up. Know this country is praying for you and know you will make it through this hard time. God Bless you all and remember that you are loved.

  33. 33 On May 25th, 2008, Rick an Shirley Fletcher said:

    We are so sorry to hear of your lose, our prayers are with your family. In this time of lose, “remember in the dark what God has taught you in the light”. Stay strong and don’t give up, someday you will see her again. God love all of you and bless you all.

  34. 34 On May 26th, 2008, Lance Lane said:

    Your ministry has meant the world to me!! I Cannot express how God has used you in my life. This tragedy is beyond belief, I do not understand why this happened. My heart grieves for you and I will carry you and your family to Jesus every day. I know he is with you in this turbulent time and my prayer is that your faith will grow even stronger. Take your time to grieve and know that we are grieving with you and love you. God Bless You.

  35. 35 On May 26th, 2008, Jamie Hudgens said:

    I am praying for your family.

  36. 36 On May 26th, 2008, Steve Piercey said:

    Words fail at time like this. I just want you to know that Steven Curtis’ music has been the single biggest impact on my spiritual life than any other single influence, musical or otherwise (besides the very Word of God) and I am so sorry for your (temporary) loss. My family and I will be praying for yours. In Christ’s great love, Steve Piercey

  37. 37 On May 26th, 2008, Kiana Cross said:

    I’m so sorry for your loss, the lord will bless your family if
    you call on him. Your baby girl is in heaven looking down on
    you waiting for you guys to come in see her when the time
    comes.Your baby girl is in a better place than this world….
    May God Bless Your Family,
    Kiana Cross
    Ps. Never quit singing for God
    because he’s doing a great work
    threw you with your singing!!!
    You sing amazing.

  38. 38 On May 26th, 2008, Christina Moore said:

    Dearest Chapmans,
    I send you my deepest condolences with the returning to heaven for your daughter. God welcomed her into the pearly gates, I’m sure, with your song for her. You are such a wonderful Christian, I admire you a lot. I love your music, and I know God will get you and your family through this with comfort and healing. I will be praying for you all.
    Sincerely,
    Christina Moore

  39. 39 On May 27th, 2008, Vicki Dyer said:

    There are no words to convey my feelings in this hour. My heart mourns with you, my tears flow with yours and my prayers are for each and every member of your family. Please don’t blame yourself. God knew this day would come before it ever came. Rest in His peace that only He can give.

    Love for all of you!
    The Dyer’s
    Spfld, Mo

  40. 40 On May 27th, 2008, Margo Long said:

    Your family has blessed millions around the world through the
    music and lyrics of your songs. I say ‘your family’ because
    many of your songs have been inspired by your wife and children.
    May you be blessed in this season of great sorrow to know that
    those millions around the world are praying for your family.
    We are weeping with you. I pray that your son will know how
    deep and how wide and how high is the Father’s love for him and
    that he will receive God’s peace. If I could be with you I
    would embrace your son because I can only imagine his personal
    grief. I pray that joy will once again come in like a flood
    resounding like Maria’s laughter. In His love, Margo

  41. 41 On May 27th, 2008, Anita Dinwiddie said:

    To the Chapman Family,

    My heart goes out to you at this time when your daughter was brought back to Heaven to live with our God. It is difficult to let them go even though we know they are sitting at the feet of Jesus and praising our God and Savior. One of the best words of advice I have received was “get in the Word and stay in the Word”. That sounded so corney to me when I first heard it, but when we are consumed by grief and we become numb. Surround yourselves with those who love you and those you love, accept the outpouring of love that is being directed your way, and dont shut out the world. I have included the words of a poem that a friend shared with me when my mother died, I hope it brings you comfort. May God bless you and hold you in the palm of His hand during this time.
    I’M FREE

    Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free
    I’m following the path God has chosen for me.
    I took His hand when I heard him call;
    I turned my back and left it all.

    I could not stay another day,
    To laugh, to love, to work or play.
    Tasks left undone must stay that way;
    I’ve now found peace at the end of day.

    If my parting has left a void,
    Then fill it with remembered joys.
    A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;
    Oh yes, these things, I too will miss.
    Be not burdened with times of sorrow
    Look for the sunshine of tomorrow.

    My life’s been full, I savored much;
    Good friends, good times, a loved ones touch.
    Perhaps my time seems all to brief;
    Don’t lengthen your pain with undue grief.
    Lift up your heart and peace to thee,
    God wanted me now-He set me free
    Author: Shannon Lee Moseley.

  42. 42 On May 27th, 2008, Angela Greer said:

    Dear Chapman Family,
    For many years my life has been touched by the music you have allowed your father and husband to share with the world. This music has gotten me through some of the toughest times in my life. I hope that you all are finding solice in the praise and worship of our Lord. There are no words that can take away your pain, but remember that God is the Healer of Our Hearts.
    Know that you are in our Prayers!
    God Bless You!
    The Greer Family

  43. 43 On May 27th, 2008, Tommy Hackathorn said:

    God bless your broken hearts! There are no words at a time like this, only hugs, love and prayers. Know that an entire Christian community throughout the world is sharing your sorrow and embraces each of you. Your family has touched so many lives around the planet and souls have found Jesus because of your testimony. God will also use this chpater in your lives to bring others to him.
    The video of Maria is an amazing representation of a little one we will meet in glory very soon. Until that blessed day, find comfort in the Lord Jesus and each other.
    We love you very much!
    The Hackathorns

  44. 44 On May 27th, 2008, Kriss Armstrong said:

    Remember that everything happens according to God’s plan.

  45. 45 On May 27th, 2008, MarJo Jeffries said:

    My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. God Bless you. Sincerely MarJo Jeffries

  46. 46 On May 28th, 2008, Pam Gaunt said:

    From our family to yours, I know that God is raining down many blessings on you at this time. Thank our Father above for His abounding love! There is nothing more reassuring than God’s promise that we will one day be with Him. Rest in the peace of knowing that your little girl is in the arms of Jesus Himself. Wow! Like the song says, “I can only imagine!” Your ministry has touched so many people throughout the years, thank you for giving of yourselves to advance the kingdom of Heaven. Prayers are lifted up, God bless you.

  47. 47 On May 28th, 2008, Cindy said:

    To the Chapmans:
    There are no words to express my sorrow for your loss. Your ministry and life has touched
    so many, and now it is time for you to receive that which only God can provide, while we
    all lift you up and bring your family to the throne of Grace. May you sense God’s Spirit
    wrapping arms of love around each of you as you grieve, and may the hole in your heart be
    healed and filled as you walk thru this with Jesus. The scripture says that we mourn with
    our brothers and sisters, and we rejoice with them as well. Praise God that one day there
    will be no more sorrow, and we will meet again with those who’ve gone before us. Until then,
    know that this community, as well as millions of others, continually cries out to God on
    your behalf. We love you.

  48. 48 On May 29th, 2008, Linda Downing said:

    Dear Chapman Family,
    May you each feel the love of Jesus as He provides your strength. You are all in my prayers.
    Linda Downing
    Springfield, MO

  49. 49 On May 29th, 2008, Sharon Lockhart said:

    Dear Chapman Family,
    My thoughts & prayers are with you in this difficult time.
    May God Bless You & Comfort You In The Days To Come.
    The Lord is with you each & every day & knows your pain.
    Many Blessings For Your Entire Family.
    Sharon Lockhart
    Reeds Spring,Mo

  50. 50 On May 29th, 2008, Evelyn Alvarez said:

    May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding be with all of you. We are
    praying for you all.

    Dios les bendiga

    Evelyn Alvarez,
    Springfield, MO

  51. 51 On May 30th, 2008, John Dougherty said:

    To the Chapman family: our hearts go out to you, and we want to extend our sympathies to your entire family. Steven, your music has been such an inspiration to all of us, and especially it has contributed to keeping my 3, now teen-aged, children on the Lord’s path. We will look forward to seeing little Maria Sue again one day! Psalms 116:15

  52. 52 On June 2nd, 2008, Debbie Morgan said:

    Dear Chapmans, like so many others I want to let you know I am praying for your family. When I was going through a terrible divorce and the knowledge that my child had been sexually abused by my Christian husband, Steven your song “When you are a soilder” was so comforting to me. I pray that comfort for you and your family now. I hope it might encourage you to know that 5 years later God has been faithful to my children and I in rebuilding our lives. Love you all! Debbie

  53. 53 On June 2nd, 2008, Jonathan Dalton said:

    Hi Steven Curtis Chapman and family. My wife and I were so sad to hear about the loss of your youngest daughter. We are praying for you. I have been a fan of you for several years. I saw you in Branson, Missouri in 1999 for the “Speechless,” tour. You have touched so many lives with the Gospel message. Keep on singing for the Lord.

    God Bless You
    Jonathan Dalton

  54. 54 On June 4th, 2008, Erika Donovan said:

    Dear Chapman Family,

    When I read what had happened I felt so heart broken. I have a little 5yr old girl and
    couldn’t imagine my life without her. I have been a fan of yours for years and your song
    “Cinderella” brings tears to my eyes each time I hear it. My thoughts and prayers are
    with all of you during this very difficult time.

    God Bless You!

    Erika Donovan

  55. 55 On June 17th, 2008, Scott & Gail Jones & Family said:

    We appreciate the love your family has with eachother. We also are truly touched by the love you have for God and His people. Our hearts go out to you in deep love and prayers. May Marie Sue’s little love and light that she brought to you shine ever brighter as the rememberance of her draws your family closer. Remember her as God’s light to you. That’s what she was Gods little light and love and gift to you for even a little while. Remember she’s waiting for you, you haven’t lost her forever. This is only for a time. She wants you her family to continue on, sharing Father God’s love with the world. Remember time is different for her than it is for you now. It is only but a moment.

    We hope you will find comfort and peace in this time of greiving.

    Love, The Jones Family

  56. 56 On June 17th, 2008, Kari said:

    I am so deeply sorry for your loss. We too lost our son on May 21st, but had only 22 hours with him before he went to be with God. Your song “With Hope” is one that we played at his funeral and it gave us comfort. You are in our prayers, we know that the loss you feel is overwhelming and we pray that God will guide us through our struggles.

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