A GLIMPSE OF HEAVEN
The decorations were finished. Music queued. Drinks and ice set out. Food placed. Dessert bar centered. Balloons blown up. Barbecue heated. The day had finally come. It was a special party, a birthday party for all the September friends. It would turn out to be a “glimpse of heaven” down here in Ed and Donna’s home. Although Ed was now in heaven, there was no doubt he was smiling that evening because it was seen in the smiles of his daughters and their first grandson, John Carter. The doorbell rings and the first of our friends were here..Miriam. With hugs and “good to see you’s” the next of our friends arrive..the volume goes up as each of the friends come. As usual there was laughter and more laughter throughout the house and the backyard. It was soooo good to see those who could be with us. With burgers and turkey franks cooking, the guys started with all their stories, and of course football. Other friends shared stories of their trip to Ireland…literally a trip or rather a slip that ended them up in Ireland’s ER. As the trooper she is, they changed their itinerary and made it the best trip they could. Another friend shared of his “ 1 minute stroke” but left no residual effects. And then the stitches of another who finished his last round of chemo and is awaiting the results of his CT scan. As we prayed for our meal the song in the background was “Staying Alive” and we all burst out laughing. I know..you may think that is a little bit morbid but to us it wasn't. We were all so grateful to be there but are not oblivious to the fact that are lives here are not permanent. And finally for the fun. The birthday people were given sun glasses, hats and sparklers while the rest of us were given blowers and the rest of the sparklers. And thus, the picture…a glimpse of heaven. It captured the JOY, LOVE, and FAMILy, we have enjoyed for almost forty years. Before we left we prayed over our dear friend John and Kathy. Like always, Jesus has been the center of our friendships and the one we always go to for help, strength, and healing. As we said our goodbyes we found it difficult to leave…until we realized it was 9:00 pm and it was way past our bedtime!!! Until we meet again friends..happy happy birthday.