I think it must be a byproduct of getting older, but it seems that I have attended more funerals and memorials the last couple of years than in any other period of my life. This was true again this past week. We lost another dear friend last Saturday, after a decade long battle with a myriad of health struggles. We attended her Memorial yesterday and I was impressed with what a legacy she left behind in not only her children and grand children, but in so many friends that she had made an impression on.
Ruby was a sweet lady in our church that we had known for the about 20 years or so. She had always treated me like I was one of her sons, so much so that I affectionately called her Mom. Whenever we would visit, no matter what she was dealing with or how much obvious pain she was in, she would always smile and tell me she loved me and remind me that she was praying for Karen and I regularly. And when I would ask, "Mom how are you doing?" Her response was almost as predictable as the sunrise. She would get that familiar grin on her face and say....
Just Praising Jesus
"Just praising Jesus”
I would always hear her say
And I just can’t help but think
How much more true that is today
She was a real prayer warrior
An encourager to all she knew
And she always had a smile for me
No matter what she was going through
With all her pain and struggle
Human frailties and strife
If you asked her “how are you doing?”
“Just praising Jesus” was her life
So today she’s in the Glory
All the trials finally past
Still just praising Jesus
But now face to face at last
Yes she will surely be missed
But her impact will be to remind
Me to just keep praising Jesus
Whenever she comes to mind.
It seems that anytime I lose someone from my life, two main things dominate my thinking; First, I wonder if I told them enough just how much I loved them and how I appreciate the impact they have had on my life. And second, I wonder how many people I have had a positive impact on, and how will I be remembered when it comes my time to go?
If you have someone in your life that has had a positive impact on you, be sure you let them know how much you appreciate them. Don't wait till it's too late.
Ps 22:25-26 My praise shall be of Thee in the great congregation: I will pay my vows before them that fear Him.
The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the LORD that seek Him: your heart shall live forever.
Ps 116:15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.
For “Mom” Self, thanks for your impact on my life.
10.24.2015
