“… 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
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Dear Mrs. Wickham,
She was such a wonderful woman of God! Even though losing someone can be hard it is always such a comfort knowing that we will be rejoicing in Heaven with them one day:) Thank you for writing this. She showed me what it means to be a true woman of God. I may not understand all of God’s plans, but I am truly grateful for the years God used her to make an impact on my life!
Have a blessed day!
-Hannah
“I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord;apart from you I have no good thing.”
~ Psalm 16:2
Dear Hannah,
I loved your mom. I know she’d be so proud of you and God’s evident work in your life. To God be the glory! He has incredible plans for you.
Much love in Christ,
Mrs. Wickham
Dear Emily, I love your message in your precious blog you sent out this week. I lost my dad this past Easter and I know I will see him again. My mom and spend a lot of time on the phone talking about him and the legacy he has left us with. That’s what the has done for us and so much More! Thank You for your beautiful writing! God Bless You,Melissa Smith
Dear Melissa, It’s such a blessing to hear from you. I sorrow with you in the loss of your dad, but rejoice knowing you’ll indeed see him again! The Lord has truly done so much for us, and we’ll have eternity to fully experience His love and goodness. Thank you for sharing.
Much love in Christ,
Emily
Beautiful. I miss her too!
Thanks, Brooke. I still remember the beautiful poem you wrote about her. She was such a special lady. To God be the glory ~ much love in Christ, Emily
What a precious story and a wonderful legacy left for you by your sweet friend. Thanks for sharing her story–and her heart with me. I look forward to meeting her someday.
Thanks, Jeanne. Won’t heaven be wonderful?! Amazing to think about the Lord preparing a place for us right now. 🙂 Blessings on your day ~ much love in Christ, Emily