Too Soon

Yesterday I paid my last respects to Jeanne, a lovely sister in Christ whose death was both sudden and unexpected. Last week I honored the life of my dear friend, Larry, after a long and valiant battle with cancer that extended (by God's grace) more than twice as long as any doctor envisioned. Soon, our church family will gather to do the same for Joanne, whose battle with cancer is going to be far too short.

So, it was with especially great joy that I welcomed the birth of my great-nephew, Benjamin Henry Kelly, almost three weeks ahead of schedule. At 6 lbs, 14 oz, and 20.5 inches long, he made his entrance into the world around noon yesterday. And, he is a keeper. By all accounts, he is the spittin' image of his Dad. The world could use another man of Don's caliber, so that is welcome news, too.

Wisdom comes in recognizing that God's timing and ours are often out of sync. He welcomes my friends' deaths with as much joy as I welcomed the news of Ben's birth. All were ahead of schedule by my reckoning.  But, His timing is perfect.  It is my faith that needs perfecting. Jeanne, Larry, and Joanne all stayed here long enough to reflect the image of their Heavenly Father. And who could not find joy in that.