A week ago, I attended the memorial service of a dear friend, Bob Rowe. He's always been a one of a kind person--a special man. He didn't always walk with the Lord, but when his eyes were opened to the truth of Jesus Christ he grabbed hold and quietly went about the Lord's business. My husband had the privilege of baptizing him mamy years ago when he was a new believer.
During his memorial service there was no shortage of tales and tidbits of goodness to share about this special man. Bob touched many lives. He didn't live for personal gain. His heart was filled with the need to serve his Lord and those around him through ministry and unexpected opportunities. He touched one life at a time. He made a difference. As I listened to story after story of Bob's life I heard things I'd never known about him.
He lived humbly, always had a sparkle in his eye and a joke at the ready. But more than that, he offered his life as a sacrifice to others and was always glad to get involved wherever needed.
During the service, one man stood up and said that if he had to describe Bob in one word it woud be faithful. He was steadfast to his profession of faith, his service and his friends.
I wondered what would be said of me, if it were my last farewell to this earth. Am I serving God with my whole heart? Does my life make a positive difference in the lives of others? What kind of example am I to my family and friends? Is it clear that Christ is the Lord of my life? Am I walking the path He's chosen for me?
Self examination needs to be done. Certainly none of us live righteously all of the time. But taking time to ponder on our Lord, our existence as His children and on whether or not we're making the most of what He's given us or squandering opportunites is hugely important.
We shall walk this way only once and then, like a mist, we'll be gone. What will we leave behind?
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Something sobering to contemplate. Interesting how the urge to evaluate can come from different moments in life.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry for the loss of your friend but grateful that you (and many others) have such wonderful memories of him. And now you have helped him live on in steadfastness and faith by sharing him here.
Hi Kav. So good to hear from you. And yes, the way we walk through this life requires contemplation. And it can be sobering. I wonder how many opportunities I've missed and how many I've hurt in my haste to be right or in my need to make a point.
ReplyDeleteI'm so thankful for a God of mercy who loves me just as I am and who is patient and helps me grow.
Thank you, Sheila.
ReplyDeleteThe Lord bless you.
Blessing to you, Bonnie, as you grieve the loss of your friend.
ReplyDeleteAnd I have to say, in answer to your questions about your own walk of faith being worthwhile: Yes and Amen! :)
So happy to see your name on the OCW class list this summer. I know you'll bless many writers.
Hi Miriam. How nice to see you. It's been a while. Hope all is well with you.
ReplyDeleteAnd thank you for your loving encouragement.
I'm looking for to the summer conference. It's always such fun and a pleasure to see my friends and to make new ones.
Blessings dear lady.