I want to share with you today a very important person in my life. Our story began 18 years ago when I was 30. I was an on-again off-again Christian, knowing there is a God but pretty much not doing anything about it and not attending church. I went through a traumatic life experience and in the process told the Lord that if He would restore my family then I would do my best to find Him. The Lord did restore my family and we had to move to another state. The first week after moving, my husband brought home an invitation from a local church for a women's luncheon. I knew that I had to act on my promise to God and I went, not knowing anyone.
When I entered the luncheon I saw Cheryl sitting at a table, smiling and laughing and I thought to myself, I think I could like her and I wonder if we could be friends. Well, the Lord was thinking similar thoughts because we became very good friends. My husband and I began going to this church. In everything I did there, Cheryl was a part of. Each class, Bible study, event had us sitting next to each other. She taught me God's Word, how to pray, how to be a good wife, mother and friend and how to love the Lord. She would sing and play the piano and I would stand amazed at her talent and love for God. One Sunday when the Pastor asked if anyone wanted to accept Christ, I went forward with my cheerleader by my side. My life has never been the same.
This past weekend, Cheryl went to be with the Lord after a 2 year battle with brain cancer. When I would speak with her, she often reminded me about what was important in life; family, friends and most of all Jesus Christ and her unwavering faith and trust in Him. She was positive and determined and brought joy to many people during a time when others might sink into despair. She leaves a legacy of her love for Jesus and the many people she touched with that love. I can only hope that my life will have as much impact on others to the glory of God as her 46 years of life had. I will miss her everyday and I will never forget the first time I saw her and that smile and her laugh.
Please pray for her husband and 3 children. Frank, Leah (college junior), Amy (college freshmen) and Frank (11th grade). Though we trust in a sovereign Lord, the grief is palpable.
Be blessed,
