Here at ZION, we recently lost a dear family member (they are all “dear,” trust me!) as she finally surrendered her fight here on earth and transitioned to the arms of her Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Chris Baker was a member of this local church fellowship for decades alongside her husband of almost fifty years, Brian. Their family (3 generations) are cherished as they have served, supported, worshiped and journeyed with us all. The Baker family are in our thoughts and prayers as they spend this week in reflection; sadness, memories and joy. The lasting hope they share is the promise of salvation – eternity with Jesus, and that is what they are confident Chris now enjoys.
I remember standing beside the Baker family swimming pool when two granddaughters were baptised one sunny Sunday afternoon. What I specifically treasure was the connection made through prayer with promises and prayers of a generation long before. Imagine knowing the prayers of your great-grandparents were coming to fruition in your life! This is evidence of a multi-generational blessing that is obvious in this family.
As we celebrate Chris’ life and the legacy of faith she leaves, we treasure the moments of joy and grieve our loss this side of eternity.
As I’ve been sitting with the family, I’ve been blessed to witness the moments of laughter, amidst the sadness, as someone shares a story about mum or makes a joke about the family. It’s a privilege to witness these moments as they reveal the legacy established over a long time.
This got me thinking; why do we wait until someone has passed away before we sit around sharing highlights from their life? Why do we not make it a regular practice to gather for the sole purpose of sharing stories, laughing at ourselves, and celebrating the life we have enjoyed together?
Celebrating life is something we should always do.
So, here’s my challenge for you, and I’m willing to be held accountable myself to this challenge also. Get together with other families, including your own relatives (yes, even the ones you’d prefer not to see!) Get together often and make the point of getting together to be celebration. When they ask you what you’re celebrating, tell them “We’re celebrating life!”