Remembering Wayne

Ten years ago today, my first husband, Bethany’s dad went to be with Jesus. Even though Wayne had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer more than two years before, and I was aware that without a miracle he would be leaving us, there is nothing that prepares you for the loss of your beloved spouse. 

I remember feeling so broken and alone as I drove Bethany and myself home from the hospital that morning. And I was suddenly overwhelmed with the realization that I had become the single parent of my 16 year old daughter, who would soon be completing high school and entering college, and we were without her dad’s perspective and wisdom as she moved into adulthood. Contemplating what I would be facing in the following weeks, months and years without Wayne made my head spin and my heart ache. 

I am thankful to the Lord and many good friends who helped us through that devastating season of grief. Since then God has blessed me with a second wonderful husband, and I am so happy and grateful. At the same time, I am thankful for the life I had with Wayne. He was a loving, godly man, husband, father, pastor and friend. Today, Bethany and I honor him and celebrate his life. Wayne’s godly influence helped to shape us and make us who we are today. 

We love you Wayne and thank God for you and the years that your light shone bright in our lives! 

Eternity—One Breath Away

My Mom recently left this world for her eternal home with Jesus. 

There were six in my family of origin and with her departure, there are now only three. In a period of a little more than two years, three members of my family have died. Dad's homegoing in September 2021 and then my brother David's only three months later were heartbreaking and difficult. But for some reason that I can't explain Mom's homegoing more than the others changed my thoughts and feelings about the afterlife. My belief has not changed, but my perception has. 

Heaven seems so much more real. Eternity so close. I am more aware of the fragility of this life. And I think often of the fact that each of us is only one breath away from eternity. One breath! 

So, it is imperative that we have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. The Bible tells us He is the only way to the Father (John 14:6). It also says that we will all die and we will all face judgment (Hebrews 9:27). 

I want to remind you that there is nothing more important in life than making the decision to accept and serve Christ! Where you will spend eternity depends on it. 

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"For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)