Today I had the privilege of seeing Grace in action. My dear friend Rola lost her husband Mike to a sudden illness last week and today family and friends gathered at a memorial service to honor him and celebrate his life. People shared stories of Mike; testified to his integrity, strength of character, humor and his love and devotion to Rola and their two children Nicholas,6, and Nicole,1.
My husband sat to my left, my close friends to my right; throughout the service crumpled, tear-soaked tissues littered our laps. In the front row, Nicholas to her left, family to her right, Rola lifted her face, she even smiled as people spoke of Mike, and she rose to hug the soloist. Amazing Grace.
After the service we went to her, offering comfort.
“I’m so sorry,” I said hugging her.
“It’s OK Kristin he’s in a better place now.” By the look in her eyes, I knew she meant it. Amazing Grace.
Then she touched Robb’s shoulder, looked at me and said, “You are so lucky to have him, tell him you love him every second of everyday.” She looked at him and said, “You’re lucky to have her too, tell her every chance you get.” Amazing Grace.
During the service Mike’s brother-in-law led the congregation in the hymn Amazing Grace. Before we sang he said they included the often omitted 5th verse, explaining that this verse provided hope.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound …
Rola, you are living testimony to the Amazing Grace of God. We love you and honor Mike’s memory today and always.
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2 comments:
Thanks for this, Kristin. Amazing grace, indeed.
Kristin - what a beautifully written description of our experience yesterday at Mike's memorial service. I agree - God did provide us a beautiful illustration of Amazing Grace through our friend Rola and the life of her beloved husband Mike. It was a service and a lesson that I will not soon forget.
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