Saturday, October 30, 2010

Dearest God,

On Thursday I was called when Dorothy died. I didn't know she had been so sick. I was sad.

Dorothy was one of my favorite people at church who complained every day of ill health. She was always certain she was not going to live long; yet she lived to be 88. "Not good," she would always respond when I asked her how she was feeling. For nine years while I was pastor she responded the same way. But that was Dorothy.

As I sat in the living room of her daughter's home, I listened as we shared stories of her life. We laughed aloud at some of her quirky ways and quietly wept during touching moments.

On my way home I reflected once again on the honor of lifting up a person in a memorial service. We only get once chance to capsulize a person's life. I think it should always be a celebration of life. As a pastor you blessed me with this honor.

Thank you,
O God,
for prized moments
of sharing.
Thank you
for the
many gifts
of ministry.
Thank you
for Dorothy,
for all
she was
and now is.
Thank you
for faith
that sustains,
love that
holds together,
peace that comforts.
Thank you, God,
for who
you are.

Love, Andrea