As I left the house, I knew I would not talk to her again this side of Heaven. She was a wonderful friend and I still miss the warm talks and fun laughter of the days we spent. The first time I met her was our freshman year in college. I was eager to make a good impression with all the new people I would meet. When I met her, she seemed so different.

She had a rare confidence that I lacked. Perhaps it was her confidence that drew me to her. I actually thought she was an upper classman because she just acted like she knew what she was doing. I, on the other hand, did not have a clue.

She helped me figure out my schedule and we even had three classes together. We quickly become friends. The thing that impressed me most was her deep love for God. She talked of Christ as though she really, really knew Him. She trusted Jesus with a pleasant approach that made me want to be a better Christian. It was like she knew that she would soon be with Him. She always spoke of Him like He actually was standing there with us.

At the end of our freshman year, we broke for the summer. I would spend an amazing summer working at Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. I remember returning to school to be greeted by so many friends excited for the New Year. It did not take long for me to realize I did not see her around. It was not until I ran into her sister that I found out why.

"She has cancer". The words cut through my heart like an icicle dropping from its perch. I questioned God and wondered out loud how such a precious Christian girl could be afflicted. The semester went by quickly. I remember walking across campus the first week of the second semester and there she was. I could pick her out of a crowd. She was much thinner and her hair was so short, but it was her. I raced to embrace her. We laughed like children on a playground. She was back!

That semester was hard on her body. She fought for every moment like she was on a mission with limited time. Her countenance was so pleasing that one just could see the reflection of Christ in her smile and in every word that came from her mouth. No matter the crippling cancer, she loved God!

By Christmas at the end of our junior year she could no longer attend class. Her days now numbered, she was so kind to the hospice people who attended her. We talked of heaven in that final conversation. She was not bitter, never bitter. She was happy. She knew the mystery. She forever made a mark on my life that helps me not fear death.

That was twenty-two years ago. I have had other friends pass on and I have thought joyfully of each one. I know others will be called home and I know that my day will come. I am good with that. I want so badly to walk each day with a confidence that Jesus Christ is my risen savior. I want to have a reflection on my face of joy and peace and grace. I want to be like my friend. I want to be like Christ. Walk with me!

Category: One Thought at a Time

Tags: Devotionals | Death |