Celebrate Life!

by Macy Johnson

“For you created my inmost being;

you knit me together in my mother’s womb.”

(Psalm 139:13 NIV)

 

I recently attended the memorial service for a dear friend. Many years ago Sally and I sang in the church choir and played handbells together. She passed away on her seventy-fifth birthday after she fought a long battle with cancer. The same day she was welcomed into heaven, my daughter celebrated her birthday. Sally ran into the arms of Jesus while Libby strolled on a sunny beach in the Caribbean with her husband.

 

Seated in the pew I pondered recollections of Sally and soaked in the powerful words of encouragement from the pastor and angelic voices of the choir. I imagined my friend standing with Jesus, watching over the celebration of her life. Her grandchildren tearfully read their final good-byes to Granny. This woman served the Lord in more ways that anyone could recall. Her earthly treasures were her family and the gifts of music and art that her heavenly Father lavishly poured over her.

 

Conversations after the service, as we stood in the reception line, spun around Sally’s legacy and the courage of her grandchildren. A few friends recalled how they had delivered tributes at their grandparents’ funerals. I did not have the courage to provide eulogies at my parents’ memorial services. Some are called to speak during difficult and stressful times, and some are not. I am so thankful God uses us in different ways for different purposes.

 

Sally was blessed with many gifts and humbly used them well for God’s glory. I hope to also be remembered as a woman who was in love with Jesus and served in His kingdom in unique ways.

 

I will continue to seek out ways to celebrate Jesus’ life and love. I hope you will, too!