Our sermon at church this week was all about paying our God given blessings forward. If you become a hoarder of the blessings then there can not be a ripple effect. I found myself nodding in agreement several times but also knowing that I myself have often been selfish with my blessings. Arriving home shortly afterwards I received the sad news we have been expecting for days now. Our dear friend and precious father figure, Ernie, has gone home to see Jesus.
I thought about Ernie in relation to the message I had just heard. Here was a man who lived a modest life. Financially not a rich man, but he gave out of the abundance of what “he” had. Spiritually, he has been a rich blessing to my family. He has displayed remarkable Godly character. His wisdom served me in so many ways which ultimately served my family, my friends and my church. He shared the grace (undeserved merit or favor) God had given him with those who most of us would not be prepared to do so with.
Even before I knew Ernie he had already impacted my life. I saw a husband who loved his wife, a father who loved his daughters, a grandfather who prayed for his grandchildren. He was a role model for those of us who now need to step up and fill his place in serving our church. In his humility he would likely say he had little to give, but when I think of those who preceded him in heaven I wonder if they would say; “I wouldn’t be here if he hadn’t shared what God had given him ~ the Good News.”
My thoughts concluded as I heard the song by Mercy Me “I Can Only Imagine.” How timely and appropriate. Ernie is no longer wondering how he will behave when he sees Jesus. He knows exactly what he’ll do. Yesterday our Ernie received the ultimate reward and one that he can claim all to himself ~ Jesus.
Ernie, you will be greatly missed, but we are praising God today. You were blessed to be a blessing. Thank-you God, for sharing Ernie with us.
We love you Ernie!
~dl
What a beautiful tribute, Donna. Thanks for putting words to what so many of us feel.
~Candace