These last three weeks have been an extremely difficult time for our church family with the recent passing away of three cherished people:

Geneva Watkins, Susie Hautala, and Jo Holly Funchess. These women were influential in shaping many lives, both young and old. Despite their different personalities and backgrounds, they impacted our lives for the better. I, for one, will treasure the limited time I was able to share with them. Sometimes they made me laugh, sometimes they made me cry, but they always were able to provide a certain level of inspiration as they shared their life’s passions and experiences.

As I have reflected upon their lives, I have thought about the various lessons they have taught me.

First, we must never underestimate the influence and impact our lives have on others. The attendance at their funerals was evidence of this fact. Much like throwing a stone into a pond and watching the ripples that result, the same can be said about our lives. Our time upon this earth surely results in influencing others.

Second, every day we are alive is a gift. The hospice I worked for in Florida had this as their motto:  We should live every day as if it is an opportunity from God to make a difference in this world. Susie, Geneva, and Jo Holly certainly did.

Finally, our lives are a mystery. None of us knows how long we will live. Life truly is fragile, but it is God who sustains us. We are never alone. God promises to walk with us and guide along the way, no matter how difficult. Geneva, Susie, and Jo Holly placed their faith in Him. We should too.
We will miss them; I am sure of that. I know I will never forget them.

In Christ,
Kurt