I attended a memorial service last night for a godly lady named Camelia.
It was one of the most beautiful services of its type that I’ve ever experienced.
The auditorium at SouthWinds Christian Church was packed beyond capacity and people were standing in the foyer and the hallways trying to listen to what was being shared.
The overwhelming outpouring of interest in attending the service was a clear reflection of the overwhelming outpouring of interest that Camelia had in blessing others.
Person after person spoke of Camelia’s gentle yet playful nature that permeated her family, church and workplace relationships.
More than anything, though, Camelia’s godly nature was recognized and appreciated.
I wish that I had known her better than was possible in only two brief meetings. For that’s all that I had with her before she graduated Saturday into glory.
I’ve had more opportunity to meet people whom she loved and influenced, though.
And through them, I continue to “meet” her.
Though this world has lost an incredible servant of God and people, the next world has gained a fountain of light and love that will bubble over forever and ever.
I’m looking forward to the endless day when I can drink deeply from the fountain of Camelia’s character, personality and smiling insights.
I’m praying that the attendees at the service last night will go beyond the point of appreciating Camelia’s life, choosing instead to imitate Camelia’s love for others and embrace the God whom she so passionately served.
Her legacy will become greater as the roster of Christ-serving people in her circle of influence grows larger.
There is a verse in today’s One-Year Bible reading that jumped off the page this morning when I read it. Camelia’s face popped into my mind the instant I read this verse:
“Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart.” (I Peter 1:22).
Camelia was by nature a very good person.
But when her nature was transformed to a higher level by the redemptive, sanctifying nature of God and His Word, she became even more loving and influential.
Last night’s service proved who she had become.
I pray that you’ll allow the redemptive, sanctifying nature of God and His Word to transform you to a higher level of love for others. That way, their hearts will be touched and influenced toward the Lord as were so many of those at Camelia’s memorial service last night.
A legacy of love. Start building one today.
As always, I love you
Martin
