Scripture reading
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
–Matthew 5:4
Thought of the Day
Jennifer was only twenty-four years old. I met her when she was a freshman in high school and it did not take me long to love her and to be loved by her. Jennifer had Cystic Fibrosis. It is a terrible disease. The last few years have not been easy for Jennifer. She spent more time in the hospital than out. She had more hard days than not so hard days. In spite of the pain, Jennifer never lost her courage or determination. She never gave up or lost sight of hope.
I had the great privilege of being with Jennifer and her family this past week when her struggle with C.F. ended, and her life here on earth was no more. It is an experience I will never forget. Even though we mourn the loss of sweet Jennifer, we can gain comfort by the outpouring of love and support of those who she touched in her life. We can gain comfort by knowing that she is now in a place without pain or disease. There are two framed cards at Jennifer’s home that totally describe how she lived her life. This is what they said:
Laugh often. Love more. Live well. Each day is a gift.
Jennifer did laugh often, and loved more than most people I know. She lived well and acted as each day was a gift from God to be celebrated. I celebrate that Jennifer is a part of my life and a true blessing.
Wherever you are right now in life, I challenge you to live as Jennifer did. Laugh and love and live and celebrate the gift of life. Things will be made better if you do.
Prayer
Lord, Thank you for those You put in our lives to make it more abundant. Amen.