Thanks, Sandy

Today, a friend of mine was buried.
Sandy suffered a massive heart attack a couple of weeks ago; she never really made it back to this world, but with the work of doctors and medicines, there were some chances that didn't pan out. Her husband, children, and friends had the time to steel themselves to the inevitable and work through some things in advance of her death.
We celebrated a worship service at church this afternoon for a life well lived, filled with love and joy, along with hardship and pain. Our pastor used a phrase I had not heard (or heard but hadn't noticed) - "her baptism is complete." I think that is a wonderful way to describe it.
Although it is hard to lose a friend, there is comfort in knowing her and keeping her alive with memories and behaviors that reflect her impact on our lives. I am grateful for the opportunity to have gotten to know her a little bit, to have been touched by her life and enriched by her (and her family's) faith.
May the Peace of God rest on that family now through the Spirit that sustains and refreshes where we think no growth can ocur.