Goodbye Mr. R

There is much rejoicing in heaven right now. One of it's most faithful citizens has returned home. Some people are just too efficient at their service here on earth.

I met Mr R. at church, as a greeter at my favorite door, but that's not really where I got to know him. No, I got to know him last year in the pick-up line for half day kindergarten. His grandson was in Chip's class. He and/or his wife were always among the early birds there, always had their windows down, and always engaged me in conversation.

"Hey, you go church with us, don't you?" He asked one day early that fall.
"Yes sir."
And by the end of the year, I'd gained an encourager, a friend, and a bit of wisdom.
Mr R. touched many lives through his service. His grandson adored him.
The ripples going through our church right now, getting in motion, are building to waves. He was a greeter. He helped lead missions trips to build houses. He knew how to make things "all good, all the time" and see glimpses of God's will in situations we never will understand. The lives he touched then touched others around them, because love never stays in one place. It surprises me how well known he was, not so much in church, but in the school, and through friends and friends of friends. It just shows God's hand never has a place it can't reach.
Rest in peace Mr. R. May you shine in the greater glory you've found.