Grief

Leaping Bound

by PamFord Davis 
11/12/14
Free to Share
Author requests article critique

  Message Writer
  Hire Writer

Tweet

Unless a part of a close-knit church family, an individual cannot fully appreciate the terminologies of ‘brothers and sisters in Christ.’ We are kindred through new birth; each member is a part of the body of Christ. When one rejoices, all rejoice; when a brother or sister grieves, we also feel sorrow. Last Friday, our church family lost an integral member, Juanita Hopkins.

Together, we grieve the loss of her presence and applaud her years of selfless service. Yet, at the same time, we rejoice in her making a leaping bound to Glory. She now abides in the eternal presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. A thought about my relationship with Juanita has surfaced. Though I had only known her for one brief year, the Lord reminded me of something.

Some might consider it a coincidence or fate. I believe in neither; God determines our steps. He wanted Juanita to sit beside me. She frequently sat next to me in Sunday school, in Discipleship training and yes, in the choir loft too… I will miss her companionship. Maybe, as John [the Apostle], the Lord is affording her preferential seating…

“One of His disciples, the one Jesus loved, was reclining close beside Jesus (John 13:23 HCS).”