Remembering a great man of faith...

In life there are happy times and sad times.  As Christians we are to celebrate the happy times with our friends, but we are also commanded to support each other during the sad times.  The Flamingos sure do know how to have fun, but this past weekend was a time to support one of our dearest friends during a dark valley.  Heather's precious dad was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease last spring.  His health decline was rapid and heart-breaking.   He claimed his heavenly reward last Thursday.

 THroughout his battle, he never last sight of Jesus.  He was a man full of songs in praise to our Lord.  Heather would tell us stories about how he would just bust out in "What a Day That Will Be" or "Sone Glad Morning" no matter where they were - a parking lot, at Wal-mart, on the beach, at the house.  This was a man who praised his Lord in ALL times!  As his last weeks approached, all of our pink hearts were burdened for Heather.  She is a pillar of faith... for her earthly family, for the Flamingos, for the little two year olds she teaches at church.  Her faith has been tested and she has kept loving GOd and leaning on Him.  Even though we all ache for this family, we also rejoice that Gordon is now singing praises at the top of his lungs before the throne of God.

The flock descended upon the small town on Saturday.  We met at a local burger joint before the visitation.  Here are the kids who came... It was a horrible reason, but oh so wonderful to all be together!!  Our boys were delighted to have some boys!!! We have not see Lacie's boys in about 2 years, so this was a real treat.  And the best part was that they did not miss a beat!

 The mommas... we missed you Lyndsey!!!

 The daddies... and I have to say a word of praise for our husbands.  When the news came, none of them hesitated that we were going to the visitation and funeral.  It was a family event to go support our dear friend.  What a blessing to have husbands who love our friends and want to help us support them when they are in need.  They were a support to Troy, but also to all of us weeping wives.  Thank you Lord for husbands who show exceptional love!

 It was a rainy day, but the sun rays peeked through the clouds.  I think it was a glimpse of Gordon shining down upon us all...

 The funeral service was overwhelming.  All funerals are sad, but this one seemed a little sadder... maybe because it was a life cut short, maybe it was because we all have felt this terrible road with our friend, maybe it was knowing that heaven is so much richer in having Gordon there.  I don't know, but it was a hard service.  There was a beautiful slide show that had the whole room - men and women- weeping.  Lacie, Robyn and I (maybe Holly too, but there were 4 bodies between us, so I could not see) used multiple tissues and had to supress moans.  Then Reid got in the pulpit.  We all took a deep breath.  I can hardly talk about Reid.  He was our first little Flamingo child.  I have watched him grow from an SUPER shy 3 year old  to a first graders telling me his memory verses every Sunday to a ball playing super star.  He is quiet, like his daddy, but has such depth of character and wisdom far beyond his 17 years.  He stood in that pulpit and had to collect himself.  Honestly, I did not know if he could squeak out any words.  I could not have in that moment.  But then he opened his mouth and WOW.  That young man of faith blew that room of mourners away.  He spoke candidly about his Papaw burning trash piles and driving his old blue truck.  He talked about the lessons Gordon had taught him about faith and God.  He spoke with clarity, authority and pride as he told us all about his Papaw. It was one of the most beautiful things I have ever witnessed in my life.  I was so proud of him... oh so proud.

Gordon was a volunteer fireman.  The processional had fire truck escorts.  They stopped in front of the fire station and tooted the fire whistle for Gordon.  Then as the other fireman stood at attention, they lowered the flag to half-staff.  Wow...

 After the freezing graveside service, we went back to the church building to visit for a bit.  We hugged, laughed, cried, tried to connect family trees and stories we've heard about folks.  But mostly, we wanted to be there for Heather... to show her that she is not alone and that as much as we love her, God loves her more!

"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us that we should be called children of God." 1 John 3:1