An ending and a beginning
It’s not everyday that you have the opportunity to celebrate a life well lived on the same day that you get to celebrate the joining of two lives and a new beginning. This weekend I had the chance to do just that-what a blessing. “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10, NIV) is the verse that resonated with me on both occasions. The devotion and dedication to a life well lived was evident in the morning’s service. A hero, a warrior, father, grandfather, brother, husband, and friend. As I sat there listening to the service he had planned for the last three years, each verse seemed fitting, each memory shared illustrating his humble leadership and sincere care for others above self. A man with high standards but well respected. His impact on those of us that remain was evident by the heartfelt words that expressed the deep sense of loss and grief while remaining joyful and grateful for the time we shared while he was on this earth.
I quickly transitioned from my uniform to a spring dress I had picked out the day before for a May wedding (it was not warm in NC!). As I sat listening to the pastor sharing the story of how my two dear friends found each other, it was a story that began with a foundation in God and continued throughout their journey to this day. They met in Israel only to find they lived close to each other (Godwink). They became best friends as they overcame health struggles and other challenges that life throws our way. They found love and joy as their families became one. As I watched the ceremony, I couldn’t help but think of how I spent my morning at the end of a life and how it didn’t differ so much from the beginning of this life.
Both events are founded in love. As I looked around me at both events, tears were shed in recognition of the deep love felt. In one event, we were thankful that a loved one no longer suffered or felt pain. In another, we were thankful to see how much was overcome to get to this special moment. An ending, and a beginning, both honoring others above self. God wants us to lead with love, to be devoted to each other and to place others above self. When we do these things, and place God first, sad moments become celebrations of the gifts and time shared. Joyful moments bring tears in recognition of how blessed we are to be a witness to God’s love on earth. An ending, and a begining. Both a blessing.
Today, I pray that you take the time to honor those you love above yourself. I pray that you take a moment to not only declare your devotion to each other, but to show it in your actions.
I pray that these words speak to you and that you share with a friend. Don’t miss a blog post, subscribe to my web page.
