Saturday, February 16, 2008

Some Deep Stuff

Today we went to a beautiful memorial service for a man that I did not really know. I know his wife, though, and two of his children (daughters) have been in senior high since Alan and I have been sponsors. I am especially close to his youngest daughter. There were several testimonies of what this man meant to so many people. He had many struggles in his life, but God triumphed and this man let that be known to the people he came in contact with. They spoke about what a godly example he was in his business life, his home life and his ministry life. They spoke of the love he had for his children and his wife. They even read the words this man had written when he and his wife had a rededication ceremony quite a few years into their marriage. It left me humbled and thinking. What am I doing that makes a difference? What will I leave behind and am I making the most of my time on earth for Christ? Will I be pointing others to Him? It was a beautiful challenge and I will certainly be praying for this beautiful family as they begin their walk without their father and husband.

As I sat there I could not help but realize that this was in my future as well. If the Lord tarries, either Alan or I will be asked to give the other spouse back to the Lord and begin our walk without each other. It is not a sad story that is only told by a few people, it happens in every marriage. I don't think any other funeral has ever touched me so deeply or made me think so much. Maybe I was more vulnerable to deep thoughts because I have spent a whole week listening to wheezing and moaning, maybe I was more vulnerable because I am a bit older now. Maybe it was different because those children that sat up front saying goodbye to their father were the same ages as three of my children.

Whatever the reason for my deep thoughts, I am thankful. I am thankful for Christians that leave such a huge mark on others and an incredible example for me. I am thankful for the challenge that I received today. I am thankful for the reminder that Alan and I have only a certain amount of time together and I need to take advantage of every day. I am also so thankful to know that this is not the end. Since Christ is my Savior, heaven is my destiny.

12 comments:

Martha said...

It seems there are many people thinking deep thoughts this month and last. If we keep our eyes focused on Christ and follow Him, we will leave behind a trail of light for others to follow.

Because of Jesus, your family has already been an encouraging example to others.

junglemama said...

This is hard to think about. I'm not sure what I would do if I lost my husband. It would be very hard and I would definitely have to heavily rely on God to get me through it.

Michelle said...

Sounds like you had a big day in many ways. If only we can remember these kind of days every minute of our lives, and not let the unimportant things take over.

I like the last sentence.

Val said...

What a blessing this post is to me. We often forget, and take each other for granted. Thank you for reminding me that it can change in a heartbeat. Thank you for visiting my blog. I have shared yours with others. What a testimony. What a challenge.

Bethany said...

Thanks for the reminder to enjoy every minute we're together. It's not always easy, but you're right that it doesn't last forever.

Shelly said...

I think I take away something different with every funeral.... They aren't usually easy lessons, but they are often some of the best lessons.

Gudl said...

Yes, very good, deep thoughts. Thanks for sharing them. I think the same. I guess it has to do with age, we are coming closer to the time when people around us do die already. That makes us think. I pray often "Lord help me to make the best of my days" and certainly how we spend time with our family and spouse is important.
Thank God we have the hope of glory.

Happy Birthday!

Krista said...

I had a dream the other night that my husband died. I awoke very close to tears and trembling. My head was hurting from clinching my teeth in my sleep. I thank God that I was able to turn over and snuggle up against him because he was still with me. I can't imagine what this family won't be going through. I am so thankful that God sent us a comforter to help us through.

Krista said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
junglemama said...

How are you doing?

Michelle said...

How are you? It must be cold in the basement, b/c you haven't written lately LOL!!

Is Davin better?

Martha said...

It's cold in my computer room too, but never lonely!