We may have lost Jeff but we haven’t lost Jesus.
My big brother went to be with Jesus. I’m heartbroken. He was a great father, husband, teacher and friend. I can’t imagine life without his guidance. I looked to him as a role model on how to raise a family, how to be a husband and teacher. Jeff always had the right words to say. He thought deeply on his faith and always looked to his Savior for encouragement and strength. His purpose was greater than his goals. He deeply loved his family and loved to share God’s grace with his students. Jeff fully trusted God’s plan throughout the hills and valleys of our life.
As I walked around my wife’s school just trying to keep my mind busy I couldn’t help but notice the beautiful words of scripture painted on the walls of the hallways. Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice!” jumped out at me.
Easier said than done, but it really is the only way. Through the most difficult times: Rejoice!
Philippians 4 continues with more of my favorite scripture. Verses 5-9 say “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
The peace of God – I think it’s one of those phrases that we take for granted – we don’t think deeply about it. Can you imagine the greatness of God’s peace? Don’t overlook it! Search for it!
Jeff is now feeling that peace to its fullest. I pray that we think on the truth of our salvation. Dwell on all that is lovely and praiseworthy so that we can feel just a portion of the peace that he now has.
We hurt but are joyful knowing that Jeff has run the race and has received his crown of Glory. With that knowledge I rejoice. Well done good and faithful servant.
Thank you John! I love you so much and will never miss the opportunity to express my love to my family and friends. So difficult to find even a portion of his peace while being immersed in such sorrow. Thankful that there is peace to be found, and when I find it will thank our God for it.
Lifting you up in prayer, my friends. May Jesus fill your sense of loss.”Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and He will say: Here am I.” Isaiah 58:9