A couple of days ago, on Saturday, February 21, I gathered with family to celebrate my Mom’s life. She passed away unexpectedly on Sunday evening, January 18.

One of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do in my own personal life so far is to attend and speak at my Mom’s funeral. I loved her so much, but was grieved at the enormous amount of abuse and trauma she experienced in her life. (I will probably elaborate a bit at a later time.) So many people told me how sweet, encouraging, and positive my Mom was. That gives evidence to the power of the Gospel in the life of a Jesus-follower.

But for now, I am sharing the video from Saturday’s service. Here is the order of service:

  • Congregational Song (Bro. Don led on the guitar; he knew Mom well since she played the keyboard on the praise team)
  • Alex, one of my brothers, gave some reflections
  • Roger, Mom’s Sunday School teacher, spoke
  • I spoke (read my comments since I was battling tears)
  • Congregational Song
  • Bro. Bill Sims (Mom’s pastor) gave an encouraging word from Scripture
  • Congregational Song
  • Closing Prayer

While there was grief, there was also the hope that comes from embracing the Lord Jesus and the Gospel. While my Mom is no longer here, we know exactly where she is. She is with Jesus right now and we look forward to seeing her again in Heaven one day.