A New Year!

New Years Day brought word of one my dear friends, Camille, being in the hospital. It was a day I actually slept in (those days are so few and far between). Chris was at work, and my parents were in for the weekend. I quickly threw on some jeans and a big sweatshirt and was out the door. I was so grateful that my Dad was willing to go with me. I was pretty emotional. We spent the majority of the afternoon in the hospital, and then headed to another friends' funeral service that evening. I gained so much perspective from the lives of my two friends, but even more so from their death. None of us are promised tomorrow. These two precious servants of Christ were here for what most would consider a "long" life. But in view of eternity, everything is so short. Time flies when you're having fun and when you have purpose. Weldon and Camille both lived with such great purpose and passion, even into their 70's and 90's. They constantly amazed me in their approach to life and relationships. In being with them, I felt like I couldn't get enough of what they had to offer. It only made me wish I would have known them for longer and when they were younger. I met them when they were "sick," and in the hospital. Most people would consider that not their "best" day, but there was still so much life! I called it out of them, and they called it out of me. It was a mutual love for each other in what we could offer. Sure, I may have helped them stay young, but they helped me gain wisdom and perspective for a life that is not my own. If they had that much to participate in, that much to give, that much to laugh about, that much to share, that much to look forward to, that much to live for in their 70's and 90's, I can only imagine what they brought to the table in their younger years. What a challenge to me in my 20's and to all of us (no matter what age we are!). Hearing how they dealt with trials and what they had overcome by the blood of the Lamb spurred me on to love Him more. Seeing how they dealt with trials and how they confidently trusted Christ gave me more living, breathing examples of His faithfulness and sovereignty and power. They didn't have to invest in me. I could have found "better" things to do, but God has uniquely wired me to go after those that are so rich in experience with Him, so full of His Word and wisdom, and I am grateful. I've only known Camille since I moved to Fort Worth and Weldon for the last two years, but the times we shared together made me better in more ways than I can count. They helped me to see the bigger picture. They made me realize that it's a forever journey with Jesus in loving and obeying Him. Every day they demonstrated an attitude in life that reflected their heart for Christ. They were not perfect, but they were perfect for me. Thank You Lord for these examples You set before me. You have filled my life with good things, and I will praise You forevermore. As we enter this new year, I will miss Camille and Weldon like crazy. But I cannot wait for the day when I will see them again! As we enter this new year, may we live like we are not promised tomorrow...with great purpose and passion! To God be the glory!