Few things are as picturesque as a quiet graveyard nestled midst the expansive farmland of rural Iowa. Headstones stand mummed in the gentle breeze. Flowers left yet again by family brighten names, dates, history. Beneath the surface are beloved grandpas and grandmas who have worked the surrounding soil for countless decades. Younger family members visit with hearts full of memories, and lives rooted in land.
A recent graveside service at the Paton (IA) Cemetery for my friend Grant Wolf (96) was just such a scene. After toiling for many years on a nearby family farm, Grant and his wife Florence retired and made their way east to live in Ames, Iowa. The Spirit would lead them to our church, and Grant's big grin and infectious, giggling laughter quickly endeared him to everyone.
How could so much joy be wrapped up in so small a frame?
Florence would head to heaven soon after they moved to Ames. Grant pressed on. The faith that wrapped its trust around Christ when Grant was a teenage boy simply kept getting in him stronger and stronger. Grant loved the Word, and loved Christian music, both which gave testimony to the Savior he loved.
And, Grant loved the prospect of the return of Jesus. He was one of those men who, in Paul's words, "loved His appearing." I think Grant literally listened for the shout and the trumpet just about every day God gave him breath.
As I write this early on Sunday morning, resurrection day, I am thrilled for my friend. Absent from a body he wore out through loving his family and so many others, Grant is now present with the Lord. We planted him yesterday in that Iowa soil. God promises to bring that "seed" out with a glorious body that will surprise everyone who knew Grant Samuel...an immortal, imperishable, powerful body that will final match Grant's immortal, imperishable, powerful heart for God.
We will miss him. But we will see him again. Because Jesus conquered the grave with life for those who trust in Him.
How about you? Are you ready for the return of Jesus Christ? Would you meet Him like Grant met Him (Wednesday last) because by faith He is your savior?
I hope so. I pray so. Don't be unprepared. There is too much hopelessness in this world, and in the next, without Christ.
Trust in Him. Believe in Him. And, listen for the trumpet...(1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
No comments:
Post a Comment