In the past 3 months I have attended 3 funerals, missed a couple more due to work or other commitments, and know of others I didn't know well who have died. Of the three funerals I have attended, two were members of my church who were both in their nineties, having lived long and varied lives, and one was my age.
Bob was a wonderful, gentle, giant of a man. On first glance, he looked gruff and unapproachable and intimidating. Nothing could have been further from the truth. Bob had a beautiful smile, a warm hug, and fierce way of protecting those around him. He was a wonderful cook and his face lit up whenever he was complimented on his culinary creations. Bob loved St. George's and served in many ways, both in leadership and other roles. There's a Bob-sized hole on the left-hand side of the church on Sunday morning.
June was a tiny woman with a sweet, sweet smile and a heart the size of God. She was ready with a hug and a smile for everyone. June greeted newcomers as if they were old friends and when members of the church weren't there, she did her best to find out why and bring them back. June was always up for a gathering, no matter the reason, and was often the life of the party. There's a June-sized hole on the right-hand side of the church on Sunday morning.
Today was the hardest. Brian was my age. We went to high school together, were in the band, and were in the same group of friends. Brian was a musician and an athlete. We lost track of each other after high school, but got the chance to reconnect 2 years ago when his beautiful wife, Michele, and his sister, Brenda, invited me to Brian's surprise 50th birthday party. Through the magic of Facebook, I have been in contact with all three of them since then. At his funeral today, we all learned so much more of who Brian was as an adult - a husband, father, chef, fisherman, and a Sergeant with the Orange County Sheriff's office, just to name a few. He was well respected and beautifully honored today. And, I believe there is a Brian-sized hole in many lives tonight.
So, what are my takeaways from these 3 lives? Love each other, smile as much as possible, help others to feel loved, and show Christ to all with whom you come into contact. I'm sure that as each of these beautiful people reached the gates of Heaven, they heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Well done.".
Rest in peace, Bob, June, and Brian. Know that you were loved and that you are missed. Until we meet again...
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