Running, Regrets and Redeeming the Time

Just before I set out to run I received a phone call about a dear ol' friend and saint who went home to Jesus last night. Her name was Jeanette and of course I thought of her through out my whole four mile run.

Upon hearing the news and as I ran reflecting on her memory, I could see her so vividly dancing and singing praises to Jesus in His presence. So full of joy, so full of peace! I felt so happy for her too. No more suffering with the cancer that she had endured for possibly almost 2 years. No more chemo, no more pain. Just pure felicity and delight!

Earth's loss is indeed heaven's gain and though I shall never see Jeanette this side of glory, I know I will see her someday again, in a context incomparable to what my eyes behold now.

With each step I took, I thought of a few special memories of this precious saint. Most recent was the lunch at Steak-n-Shake this past fall. I thought I got together to encourage her and all the while, she was the one who encouraged me! As she ate up her chili mac, not leaving one crumb on her plate, she told me of the ministry God had given her because of the cancer. She told me of all the sick folks she would share with about the Lord and pray with as they would receive their chemo together. Her attitude was just unbelievable! When I asked her to pray for our fellowship time over lunch, she just said, "Oh Diane, you go ahead, I'll just break out in tongues praising Jesus for who He is and all He's doing!" I will never forget that!

Another memory was the time she shared during our church service. In the spirit of liberty, as she shared about her cancer situation, to all of our surprise, she took off her wig just a smilin' as big as she could, unashamed and full of sweet resignation to the will of God, hair or no hair!

Then there were the times having dinner with her, at another home or at ours. She would always have something special for my kids! She also had a wonderful "card" ministry. I have kept every card she has sent us! I ran filled with joy remembering her!

However, I do regret not making more time for this sweet elderly woman of God, especially after she was diagnosed with cancer. My husband and I wanted to go visit her and serve her communion and worship with her. We were hoping to do this soon. It just never happened. I regret that.

Time knows of racing, for time is racing by far too quickly. The Bible says my life is a breath, a mere vapor and then it is gone. So it is with those we love and are privileged to share "life" with. Next time I will "redeem the time" as Ephesians 5:16 exhorts me to and not put off something I think of have tomorrow to take care of.

Four miles worth of reminiscing about one of the spiritual giants I ran the race of faith with for a while, in spite of the regret I feel, made my run seem to fly by. "Thank you, Jeanette for all your life taught me! You helped me to see the Lord! I won't ever forget you! And, I will see you on the other side!"