A Legacy Lived: In Honor of Everett

An older gentleman I’ve know for 20 years passed away last week.  It surprised me because I wasn’t aware of the health problems he had been experiencing.  My husband, son and I made the 6 hour drive to attend his memorial service and express our support for his precious family.  We saw many friends we had known for years who also came to express their love, and the trip quickly became a sweet gift from God.
He was a marvelous man.  He served in the military when he was younger, drove truck during the years my family lived near him, and literally could fix anything (in my mind).  He was a character and had great pet nicknames that he called everybody. I remember him calling me “Pudge.”  He was happy to chat with anyone at any time. He rescued our budget several times when he repaired a car that we thought had officially died.  He loved to sing hymns, “play” his player piano and make an amazing meal in an old milk can.  Some might consider him out-of-date, or eccentric, but he was as real and as genuine as he could be.  He unashamedly remained true to his God, his country and his own quirky self.
As I listened to friends and family tell stories of this delightful man, I was challenged:
** Challenged to stand more affirmatively, more conspicuously for what I believe.  Jesus Christ died to save me and offer me forgiveness.  His grace and sacrifice gives me access to God Almighty and His throne room.  I have been given eternal life, plus joy, peace and  purpose in this life!  I never walk alone and His power enables me to live abundant life.  Why do I tend to take a step back when the topic of faith is raised among people I don’t know well?  Why am I not more assertive, since I have THE answer that provides hope for all people? Why am I concerned about offending someone if I truly believe the God of the Universe is who I choose to follow and serve?
** Challenged to unashamedly be who I am.  God created me on purpose.  My quirks and idiosyncrasies are intentional. I am one of a kind and as someone else, who I can’t remember, has said, I am the only me there is!  Why do I hide who I am or try to be someone else?  Why am I embarrassed at times to identify what I think, like or enjoy?  Why do I become concerned by what other people think?  I am a child of the King of Kings, His opinion is the only one that matters.
** Challenged to see the value in each person I meet.  My older friend chatted with everyone and expressed interest in who each person was, and what he or she was involved with. I am often too focused on what I want to do next to take the time to truly chat and listen to others.  Each time I’ve passed an opportunity to have a conversation, I’ve lost the chance to be taught and challenged.  I’ve given up a moment to create, fortify or intensify a friendship.  I have denied myself and someone else of encouragement and support.
My heart is saddened by this sweet man’s passing.  And my heart is full, for I have been reminded of the amazing gifts God gives me in so many various forms.  I am challenged, and I am blessed.