A Tribute to John

One week ago, a dear man of God slipped from his earthly body into the spiritual realm to meet his Savior face to face for the first time since he'd put his faith in Christ's finished work as a boy many decades ago.  His name was John -- a man who was greatly loved during his lifetime on this earth and is greatly loved in his new heavenly home by not only his Lord Jesus, but his Mom and Dad and other loved ones who greeted his arrival there.

The First Baptist Church in South Carolina, where John's funeral was held has many beautiful, old stained glass windows.  I chose this window to represent John's life because not only did he put his faith in the cross of Christ, but during his life on earth he grew in his relationship with the Lord as signified by the green leaves, and I've no doubt he was presented with a crown for his faithfulness to the Lord.  The blending of these elements in a Christian bring glory to our heavenly Father.

All of us who knew John will miss his sweet spirit, enjoyment of life, love of family and gentle humor.  While his dear family are grieving his loss, they are also rejoicing in the assurance that he is happier than he's ever been, enjoying peace, good health and wonders that we can only faintly imagine.  In Hebrews 11, God speaks of His people as "longing for a better country -- a heavenly one" where He will be called their God.  Because God so loves His children and knows this new home will be so amazing for them, the verse in Psalm 116:15 tells us, "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints."

I truly thank God upon every remembrance of our dear brother in Christ, John, and I look forward to seeing him again someday.  May God bless his sweet family during this time with His rich, loving comfort and peace.