life and death.... and life

The father of an old special friend passed away the other day. I had the privilege of knowing the man, a wonderful, happy, loving, great wit, and a big joker. He also loved Jesus and lived accordingly. The family had a great idea, that they would set up small notebooks in the vestibule of the church and ask that everyone whose life had been influenced by the life of this wonderful man would simply write in what way that influence had impacted their lives. It was amazing how many people said the same things - he was full of joy, ready to love just everyone, and as patient as they come. The family will suffer this loss more than anyone, for not only was he the shining example of what a follower of Christ should be for them, and not only did he love them all beyond measure or do anything in his power to help them.... he was also their cook. There are cook-offs now to see who can make the spaghetti even just remotely like the spaghetti that Dad used to make... they still joke around with him, even though he isn't there. This is the legacy he left behind: a pile of people who loved him and who will love Jesus the way he taught them to. What better legacy to leave a family?