Sunday, July 23, 2006

A Memorable Day

I awoke this morning to a day that I could not have possibly imagine just 18 months ago. My dear wife of 46 years went home to be with her Lord just one year ago today. I was unsure how I would handle such an anniversary. As pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, I was fearful that I would not be able to perform all my duties so I scheduled guest speakers for the morning and evening service.

The members of my congregation have been very supportive during these last months. My secretary ordered flowers for the Communion Table in honor of my wife.

Sometimes people look at a grieving person and think, "Why are they acting like that?" Especially is that true for people of faith. We seem to think that "faith" takes away everything else associated with death. My grief has nothing to do with my faith and everything to do with my emotions - I desperately miss my wife. I am healing and I am not angry with God for taking her to heaven. I would not bring her back to this sin-cursed earth, even if I could. But I certainly do want to see her and be with her and I have no doubt that one day soon I will. But until that day comes, I will go on serving God, allowing Him to bring healing to my wounded spirit, and take every opportunity to tell others that "God is good ... all the time ... even when I don't understand." Some song writer {I don't remember who} "When you can't trace His {God's} hand, trust His heart.

Jerry

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Welcome!

The electronic media allows one to publish so easily. At times I will be able to express my thoughts easily. At other times I will struggle to come up with any thoughts at all. To those who will read, thank you for understanding.

J Burton