October 6, 2006
Let me begin by saying that the funeral
service for Jeff was perfect. It was so encouraging to hear the stories
from everyone who shared, and to hear that the Jeff that everyone shared about
was totally in line with how we all knew him. I would like to get copies
of all the tributes that were read for my own personal keepsake and also to post
them on the website. If anyone out there could spread the word to those
who shared, that would be great. At the calling hours the family set up a
station where guests could share a memory of Jeff that we will put into a
collection for his kids. I want to thank everyone for that and if there is
anyone who was unable to attend or who missed the opportunity, please send those
to myself or one of the family members. The stories and memories are an
important part of remembering Jeff, but most of all they all point to the his
relationship with Jesus Christ. That common thread runs through his whole
life.
As I heard people share about Jeff's life, I couldn't help but think of my own
life and I am sure many of you did the same. I fear that my testimony
would pale in comparison to Jeff's. And when you stack it up next to the
ultimate example of Jesus . . . well, I am even further from the mark. So
much time is wasted by things that don't honor the Lord and if I think back, I
don't remember Jeff wasting any minute of the day. For me, his testimony
is stronger now after his departure than it was while he was with us. The
facts are still the same, but it just hits me now in places where I might not
have been reached before. I will honor his life, a life that points to
Christ. I do this, not so that people will have nice things to say about
me someday, but because that is what my Father in Heaven has called me to do.
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your
bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual
act of worship." Romans 12: 1