Church

Ray Coleman was just 70 when he died.  For at least the past decade he had been at the local manor, unable to do the skiing, camping adn golfing that he loved.  MS had made him inactive, unable to walk and care for himself.

But certainly not without activity!  His mind was sharp and he could entertain with stories and scripture.  Those who visited found him an encouragement – in spite of handicap there was joy in the journey.

Today we bury his remains.  But, his wife had one of those great statements.  Now, when she thinks of Ray, she can see Him WALKING!

Does life get any better than that?

So, our regional pastors meeting got a little silly.

We all enjoy Tim Horton’s – hot chocolate for me – coffee for others!  And, I suppose if we were ever to need a second job, we could run a coffee shop or something like that.

Of course, you would need a good name.  Something that might sound a little sophisticated, even European.  Like “Snotroh Mit”.  Then you put a mirror out front that flashes the coffee shop name backwards every few minutes.  Two names in one!! 

We could sell day old doughnuts from that other place.  And coffee left-overs!

Sounds like a winner to me!!

When I first decided on Christian ministry my sights were set on teaching.  I naively expected that imparting information was enough.

I still think speaking truth is important, and is a bondage breaker!  But the matter of relationship and just “loving on” people enlivens that truth.  You live truths – in everyday situations. 

Today a group of regional pastors met.  We discussed theology, pastoral issues and personal concerns.  Life and Truth embraced!  We walked away encouraged and ready for God’s next day, and the day after, and the day after, and . . . 

This morning I awoke to a sense of need.  Call Gladys Coleman.  I had heard late in the previous evening that her husband was not doing well.  On Monday, Jill and I had a hospital visit with him – he had some phlegm and was wheezing a bit.  In a normal situation antibiotics and drugs would have cleared this up fairly quickly. 

Ray Coleman had MS for a number of years, his body had restrictions in movement and his system could not effectively cope.  He passed away in the night.

Gladys and her family are grieving.  At the same time she rightly explains, “I can see Ray walking right now!”  To be with Jesus is far better!!

Life and Death intertwine when we least expect it!

A grandfather only needs to hear once that new pictures are needed!

Christopher, our grandson, was here for a week.  Allison drove back today leaving behind good memories and anticipation of seeing them again in a short while.  Of course, the definition of a short while is all relative (in more than one way!!).

Our son Tim also dropped in for a week or so.  He was quite glad to hold Christopher and play the uncle part to the hilt!!

When all is said and done – it’s all done too quickly!