The other day I had the opportunity to attend a funeral for Frieda, a 95 year old sister in Christ who attended our church. Funerals are something I could live without, but I know they are a part of life. Often they leave me sad and cause me to reflect, but this past Friday I also found myself encouraged.
Honestly, it seems weird to say that; I mean how can death encourage? But friend, I saw Philippians 1:20 lived out...Christ was exalted. In most people's eyes, Frieda was a typical person, living the life God had called her to...she'd raised a family, been a farmer's wife and helped her neighbors out. According to the world's measures she really didn't stand out in a crowd.
But in God's eyes, she had done so much. I know she heard the words I long to hear..."Well done good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23) Frieda had walked the road God made for her. A road that included losing her first husband and being a widow with 3 small children. A road that was hard, but one that taught her to persevere. A journey that included ups and downs, good times and bad, but one that led her closer to Christ. A life that left her outliving her second husband and even one of her sons, but found her enjoying the many grandchildren, some greats and even 3 great-greats.
At the funeral, some of the family shared from their heart...there were stories and memories, but the common thread was Christ. Frieda had not only loved her family, she'd led them to Christ. She passed down the faith. She set an example we all can learn from and be encouraged by.
She never led a ministry and as far as I know never spoke on a stage, but she ministered to many and shared her faith. She trusted God and sought Him til the end. She studied His Word and prayed powerful prayers. She made a difference and left a legacy!
Friend, what encourages me is: you and I can do the same. But we must start now...think about the people you influence, what legacy are you leaving them? Is it one of faith? May we remember 2 Corinthians 5:10, "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." And let's not forget C.T. Studd's words that echo this verse, “Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.”
I pray we've all been challenged to look at the legacy we are leaving and encouraged to leave one that is Godly!
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| Where it all begins... |
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| Somedays are crazy, but let's remember with God all things are possible!! |
2 comments:
Jill, thank you for sharing this beautiful story about such a lovely woman. Yes! I desire to leave a legacy of faith to my family and friends....one that will last long beyond my time on this earth. Thank you for sharing. You have inspired me today. :)
Blessings,
Wendy
Thanks Wendy...I do believe you are leaving a legacy that will last! I'm thankful to be one you share your faith with! Blessings back to you!!
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