One of the privileges of being a pastor is the opportunity to become involved in the lives of the people you serve.
To walk with people, especially during times of illness or loss, and to offer them what is needed the most - the Gospel of Jesus Christ - is a very special privilege.
I've had that opportunity the past few weeks, joining the Kanzler/Lingenfelter families as they loved and cared for Virginia - dear mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend.
These families have become very special to me. They have appreciated my ministry and have offered unconditional love and support to me.
Connie is our Administrative Assistant. Our church simply would not know what to do without her laughter and genuine concern for every person who walks through our office doors. Our growing high school youth ministry was planted by Patti, who was willing to help us get a ministry started when no one else would step forward. Scott, Patti's husband, reminds me of the phrase, "Still waters run deep." His faithfulness at worship and Bible study is always an encouragement to me. Scott and Patti's daughter, Nicole, is an amazing singer. Those who participate on "American Idol" each year can be glad that Nicole hasn't appeared on the show - she would blow them all away. And Kelcy, the youngest Lingenfelter, lives up to her grandmother's nickname for her - she is all "Sunshine."
Today, at 11 am, we are having a Memorial Service for Virginia. Because of the hope we have in Jesus, today's service is not "goodbye" but "see you later." In the resurrection of the dead on the Last Day, the Kanzler/Lingenfelter families will be reunited with Virginia and all of their family members who loved and placed their faith in Jesus. They will rejoice. They will hug. They will laugh. And together with angels, and archangels and all the company of heaven, they will laud and magnify the God of their salvation forever and ever, without end. What a day that will be.
Until then, see you later, Virginia.
