The Body Is Gone, the Spirit Remains

(Jack and Norma’s 60th Anniversary Celebration)

A day that many would complain about the rain and then more rain. But Father, it as You would have it, sunshine and rain balance to bring us the beauty of Your creation! All praise to You!

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This past week the patriarch of a branch of Karen’s family died. I have only had the privilege of knowing the Londot family for the last 15 years or so. Jack Londot is a cousin of my mother-in-law. Whereas my family is somewhat disjointed and separated by the miles, Karen’s, for the most part, is pretty connected, especially her mom’s side. And by that, I mean I know most of her mom’s immediate family, her paternal and her maternal side, as well.

We’ve attended graduation parties and weddings. Karen has been to several baby showers, too! And I for one am very grateful! They are a loving family full of support and encouragement for each other…and that spirit extends to those around them.

Jack and his wife, Norma, who passed away at the end of 2019, were just normal people, but they were some of the most exemplary people I have ever met. They had five children, who in turn had many children, who are now having children themselves. And honestly, every one of them with whom I have interacted carries on that family spirit of love, support, and encouragement instilled by Jack and Norma. Their bodies may be gone but their spirit remains.

Over two thousand years ago, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ walked this earth. He was born as a babe in a stable of Bethlehem. As He grew, He shouldered the responsibility of fulfilling the call upon His life – to live an exemplary life of sacrifice and giving. And that is how He died, as well. By sacrificing Himself – no one took His life, but He freely gave it – He bestowed upon all who would receive it, the gift of the forgiveness of sins and life with Him in eternity. And no one is excluded. All are welcome!

And though His earthly body is gone (to be replaced by His glorified body!), to God’s eternal glory His Spirit remains! What the Londot family continues to pass along is truly wonderful but God’s Holy Spirit far surpasses that! In truth, a large part of the Londot’s spirit is due to their relationship with God’s Spirit. Many of them reflect their Lord and Savior in their day-to-day life, as did Jack and Norma.

It makes no difference where we come from, all that matters is our relationship with Jesus. And that my friends, makes all the difference! To follow in His footsteps is what impacts the world, one life at a time.

May 9^th, 2021, Sun, 7:07 pm