Heaven’s Names

“… rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.” – Luke 10:20

She was my friend. During our first in-depth conversation, she described the church-related hurt she and her husband had previously endured. I could tell she hoped for a better experience as they plugged into our church. They delved into serving. Possessing a tender heart for children and a passion for prayer, she designed an adorable prayer request box for our church’s children. Administratively gifted, she utilized excellent organizational skills in the children’s department. Wisely and mercifully she handled disciplinary situations. Soon our friendship spanned several years. A fabulous cook, she skillfully prepared a delicious meal that our families enjoyed together. Sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading, my servant-hearted friend brought food and cheer to my home while I recovered from an emergency appendectomy. She drove me to my doctor’s appointment and sweetly gave me a candle. She wanted to be a blessing. Oh, she was.

Then she got cancer. Standing outside our church, she shared how foolish she felt that she hadn’t gotten checked sooner. She thought it was pneumonia … but it wasn’t. No, colon cancer relentlessly attacked her body and my precious friend suffered treatment’s effects–all the while loving her Lord, her family, and friends. We started praying together over the phone. We visited in her home where I tried to help with whatever was needed. I wasn’t ready to lose my friend, yet the Lord took her home about one year later.

She lives on. I still contemplate her godly character and the gift–the treasure–she was to me. When I see her daughters, who have grown into beautiful, godly young women, I think how proud she would be. Her son, one of my son’s valued friends, has matured into a gentle and kind young man. Though her life ended earlier than we all wanted, her legacy reflects “the Sunrise from on high” (Luke 1:78). The Lord still speaks through her.

Life has many joys and sorrows, goals and achievements, births and deaths. It’s full, yet like a breath. Pondering its ultimate purpose, one question surpasses all: Do you know the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior?

Occasionally tears fill my eyes as I remember my beloved friend. Then I’m reminded she’s with the Lord … rejoicing in His presence … cherishing Him face to face. One day we’ll see each other again and rejoice together. We’ll worship God together because our names are recorded in heaven. Dear friend, is yours?

“… by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead … there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved.” – Acts 4:10, 12

 photo credit: Christolakis via photopin cc