Good morning…
As my mind quietly shifts from asleep to awake, I take one huge breath and immediately think of my friend Anne. Today the Landers’ family will reverently lay Jerry’s body to final rest, but, joy of joys, Jerry’s robust spirit has already returned to our God, carried in the arms of his best friend Jesus.
I get out of bed and go to my computer, typing in these sacred words: “Jerry Landers obituary.” The face I see smiling at me is familiar, welcoming, unforgettable. His picture takes my breath away, and I can’t help but smile back. Then I shut my eyelids. I climb inside myself to savor in the holy dark my tears of sadness, my tears of gratitude, my tears of grieving with this faithful family. With closed eyes, I silently pray for family and friends as we prepare for today’s 2:00 pm Celebration of Life service at Northside Church.
Then opening my eyes when the moment is right, I read the first line of Jerry’s obituary. I am surprised to learn that he was just 64 years old when he went to heaven. Jerry always seemed agelessly eternal, and he truly is. The descriptors of Jerry ring so true. Teaching. Preaching. Sharing the Word of God. Faithfully serving Northside Church. The obituary is right. I will always remember Jerry’s integrity, his whit, his intense love for God and others.
Then sacrifice peace offerings and have a celebration feast in His presence (Deuteronomy 27:7, VOICE). As I rest my ear on the broad chest of God, I sense Jerry’s trusty heartbeat rippling on.
…Sue…
