Yesterday we attended worship in the church where Cheryl’s dad had served as pastor for his entire ministry. They were observing All Saints Day. The first hymn, “Behold A Host Arrayed in White” spoke of those wearing white robes and waving palm branches around the Lamb of God sitting on his throne. I knew one more of those who is now in that throng. The final hymn, one of my favorites, “For All The Saints Who From Their Labors Rest,” was sung at my father’s funeral 32 years ago. I love that hymn but have a hard time singing it all the way through. In fact, I don’t mind telling you that there were tears streaming down my face through most of the service yesterday. Some were tears of grief as I know how much I will miss that man. Some were tears of joy thinking of where he is now. Some were tears of gratitude when I considered what Jesus did to make it possible for us to spend eternity with Him.

Today would have been Gerald’s 89^th birthday. In the early church, they talked about the day a person died from this life as being their birthday, the day they entered their new life in heaven. That was last Saturday for Pops. And today we will have a graveside service followed by a memorial service, once again at Zion Lutheran Church in Lockett. Jesus Christ crucified and risen will be proclaimed. And there will be more tears and laughter.

Tomorrow we try to go back to our “normal” lives without Gerald, Jerry, daddy, Papa, Pops, Pastor, Preacher or however you knew him. He left an impact on a lot of lives. We cherish the memories we have. But who don’t have to go on alone. The one in whom Pops had placed his faith and confidence, the one he shared with others through his words and actions and his entire life, the one in whose presence He now stands, is still with us.

Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Matthew 28:20 And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

1 Corinthians 15:57 Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.