sad joy

I have an odd sort of joy this Sunday morning in New Zealand; two weeks from returning to Washington State. It's a sad sort of joy; sad for those of us who are left living and so full of joy for the one who has slipped through his tangible body and entered a much more amazing and beautiful world.

My Great Uncle Laurie passed away today in Washington. A little over a year ago he had major heart surgery and last June he celebrated his 80th birthday. Yesterday, he suffered a major stoke and began to walk the road to unimaginable joy with his Savior and God.

Though I never spent as much time around him as my grandmothers, this witty elder of the family I know was the closest thing I ever had to a grandfather. After my grandma in Washington died, I began writing he and Aunt Joyce a few snail-mail letters and enjoy reading about their lives in return.

Uncle Laurie was witty and loved to tease a bit. I remember being slightly scared of his humorous prodding when I was 6, or so. Regardless, it was always special to be able to go to their house for coffee and cookies. He was thoughtful and wise. He was an excellent second father figure to my dad's family after their dad died and an ever faithful servant of Christ on this earth.

He loved to build things. I collect spoons because I have spoon racks that he made. He built his own home; complete with singing doorbell, and, upon my last visit to his home, even a singing toilet paper roll. Working with wood was his special hobby.

He was a bit of an adventurer; whether in his own back yard, or traveling the world. Perhaps that is why I am in New Zealand typing this; a week off the continent of Antarctica. God's Creation from the Cascade Mountains to the Southern Alps, Puget Sound to the Tasman Sea, is an amazing place to experience his grace towards us.

Looking back on our family history, I appreciate his powerful testimony in our lives. I've been more indirectly touched through my dad than directly affected by his life and know what a special part of many people's lives he has been. Because of his important role in the livelihood of our family, I see him as a great example of how to live out the lives of the faith of our biblical fathers.

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality... -- Romans 12:9-13... --