Harry greeted us the first Sunday we attended Church in Klamath Falls, the summer of 2001. He was a man of few words because he had a throat condition that kept him to a whisper most of the years we knew him. His heart was big as all outdoors. He loved the Lord with all his heart, soul and mind. he greet us with a smile of all smiles and we fell in love with Harry and his collection of ties.
This past year his throat required yet another surgery but this time they were to remove his voice box and give him a device that would enable him to talk again. As plans go many times in our life, this plan didn't come off as well as it did on paper. Cancer was involved and Harry's days became few. As daunting as all that sounds, Harry smiled and mouthed; "I'm going home!" We made our last visit in person with Harry on Monday the 2nd of November. I saw first hand how much more difficult it was for him to even whisper anymore, although he still had his note pad and pen. The following week I sent him a letter.
November 9, 2009 We were happy to finally get to visit with you the other morning at the hospital. We are always uplifted when we are with you. We know these are difficult days for you and your family but God is with you. Take hold of His hand and feel His presence.
One of our most favorite scriptures that is usually read at memorial services is really for our days of living and not necessarily after we die. It is most famous because it depicts Jesus as the "Good Shepherd." Jim many years ago started paraphrasing the 23rd Psalm by putting the name of the person he wanted to read it to, within the context of the scripture. I want to do that for you Harry. It not only becomes personal, but it brings you and Christ into focus, together.
"Harry, the Lord is your shephered; You shall not want. He will make you to lie down in green pastures. He leads you beside still waters; and He restores your soul. The Lord, Harry, will lead you in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Even though you walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you will fear no evil; for He is with you; His rod and His staff will comfort you. Harry, the Lord prepares a table before you in the presence of your enemies; He anoints your head with oil, and your cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow you all the days of your life; and you Harry, shall dwell in His house, forever." Psalm 23
This is a hppay scripture! This is a comfort to our souls! God wants us to always feel safe. Remember the story as Jesus approached the boat while walking upon the water? When the Apostles saw Him they thought it was a ghost and were filled with fear. Jesus spoke to them and said; "Take heart, it is I; have no fear." Mark 6:50c In other words, Jesus says; "Do not be afraid, I will be with you always, even to the end." Matthew 28:20b
Harry, we love you and your family. If there is anything we can do or to be helpful in any way, please let us know. It is our joy to help make you as comfortable as possible. We praise the Lord for bringing you into our lives and may His peace and joy surround you completely. Our prayer is that you will let the Lord walk with you and your family through out all the days ahead. Harry never read my letter! He went home instead!
11/10/09 During prayer time at our weekly Bible Study I prayed for Harry. I asked the Lord to take him gently and was content knowing our Lord is faithful! I received a call the following morning; Harry passed away the evening before. The Lord answered my prayer and the prayers of others. He took Harry gently; without pain nor further suffering. "The memory of the righteous is a blessing." Proverbs 10:7a Jim and I have had our lives enriched by these Saints of God. We are truly blessed! By Jane Ann Crenshaw 11/30/09
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment