Saying Goodbye to Bill

We attended Bill's funeral today. Was it sad? Yes. He was 52. It was sad watching his 3 sons say goodbye to him.

My dad officiated the service which was beautiful. He told of a conversation between Bill and Hope that took place at the beginning of this week. They were talking about Heaven and Hope assured Bill she would join him there when her time came. He said, "OK, then I'll leave the light on for you." I can hardly write that without tearing up. First of all, it's so sweet and tells of the kind of person that Bill was. Second, it brought up memories of when I was a kid and we would travel through the night to my grandparent's home. We'd arrive in the early pre-dawn morning hours and be so tired. I remember pulling into the driveway and seeing the porch light on for us. I'd always be so relieved to see that light so I could rest and wake up to see my family!!

Bill was remembered by two things: His Love for the Lord and his love for his family. He was such a kind and gentle man. I envision that as he entered into heaven, my Grandpa Adrian (who was Bill's pastor for years) was waiting to welcome him.

This poem was read at the service today and I thought it was so good. Thanks for all who have prayed for Bill and his family. If you happen to think of it during the days ahead, continue to pray for his family.

The Servant's Reward

One day, when you are in Heaven,

someone will come up to you and thank you

for the way you touched his or her life.

The person's words will take you completely by surprise.

Soon, another person will seek you out,

and then another, and another.

As you listen to each one's story,

you will begin to discover all the ways that God used your life

when you were unaware of it.

You will find that it was most often not through the big things that you did,

but through the small and simple things--

a spoken word that was not planned,

a spontaneous act of kindness,

a loving attitued, or a caring smile.

To your joy, you will discover that in all these ways and more,

God used you to deposit and eternal measure of His love

into many needy hearts.

~Roy Lessin