The memorial
by adustyframe ~ June 1st, 2008Lee’s brother’s memorial was a special day. It was held at his parent’s church.
The last time the Norris family gathered there was for our wedding. This time of course it was not a joyous occasion.
Lee’s parents were overcome with emotion most of the day and that was very difficult to see them hurting so much.
We sang quite a few hymns and the pastor shared verses. He gave anyone the opportunity to share memories. I hadn’t been to a service like that before. It was actually very special.
Siblings told stories of their childhood years and there were some laughs. There were also a lot of tears. Lee cried quite a bit. He hates crying in public as much as I do. I thanked God that he was there and that I could support him.
Sitting there on Saturday, I realized that Lee and I hadn’t sat together in a church for a long time.
The pastor shared a wonderful sermon including the plan of salvation. I was thankful to hear the Gospel included. Lee’s brother professed Christ at a young age, but hadn’t been walking with the Lord for many years. He came back to the Lord in the past years and he was ready to die. He had been ill for quite awhile so the family is thankful that he’s not suffering anymore.
After the service, the church prepared a meal for the family. Lee was able to visit with all his siblings that he hasn’t seen since his release. He also saw aunts and uncles and old family friends. I think this was good for him too.
The pastor of the church has known us for quite some time. He gave me a hug and said, “I wanted to commend you for being a faithful wife. It’s so good to see him free isn’t it?”
I smiled and nodded. The lump in my throat prohibited me from speaking.
It was a precious privilege to be there with him that day. I held his hand, patted his back, whispered, “It’s ok to cry” and smiled while he was loved on by his family.
It was a special day of healing and memories.
June 2nd, 2008 at 3:53 am
Lizzie,
So glad Lee is out and could attend the memorial. I am glad also that the Pastor praised you for your faithfulness as a wife.(It is a beautiful testimony) We have attended several services where anyone could comment and share memories. We really like that also.
June 2nd, 2008 at 6:12 am
Hello Lizzie!
I have been a “lurker” on your page for some time. I found out about it from my friend Barbara at Stray Thoughts. I think it is about time that I “delurk”. (I think that’s the term!)
You have been such a blessing and encouragement to me as I have read your blog. You have been so open and honest in your struggles, hurts, fears, and joys. You have also been able to point others to the Lord as you acknowledge that He is the One Who has gotten you, your husband, and your son through to this point.
Thank you for being willing to allow God to work through you during a very difficult time.
Many women, even Christians, would not have been willing to wait and trust that God would bring good from the bad. He is not done with you and Lee. I think this is just the beginning of what He is going to do through you, as you continue to yield your lives and your wills to Him.
I am praying for you and your family. Keep being faithful!
Philippians 3:13,14
June 2nd, 2008 at 8:08 am
Hello,
I also commend you on your faithfulness, you took the hard road. You could have easily walked away, and no one would have blamed you. What a testimony you have been to me and to many others.
I’m sorry to hear about Lee’s brother, but what a blessing you were able to be to your husband in this difficult time. No one wants to go through something like that, but at least you could go through it together!
Still praying for you,
Jen
June 2nd, 2008 at 8:12 am
Aaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhh.God is good.Love, Susan
June 2nd, 2008 at 8:39 am
Thanks for taking the time to share with us….you have no idea how many of “us” there are that check on you everyday to see how you are doing and how we can pray for you and your precious family. Your honesty is inspirational. god Bless, Pam