Real Living *

Then he called his disciples and the crowds to come over and listen. “If any of you wants to be my follower,” he told them, “you must put aside your own pleasures and shoulder your cross, and follow me closely. If you insist on saving your life, you will lose it. Only those who throw away their lives for my sake and for the sake of the Good News will ever know what it means to really live.
Mark 8:34-35 The Living Bible

Today, I attended the Celebration of Life service for Samuel Duane Tucker, co-worker and friend. Three hours of friends and family telling stories and sharing favorite memories of a giant of a man from East Texas! Longest service I've ever been to, and amazing. Another friend said, "It was by far the best memorial service I've ever attended!" 

There was no pretense. Nothing contrived. Just honest folk telling the tapestry of Sam's life, thread after beautiful thread of loving and giving and total commitment - first to His Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ - which taught him how then to love others, give of himself and be totally committed to those in his life. 'Service' was the operative word to describe Sam. My heart is so full!

He didn't preach his Christianity. Sam lived it. Only those who throw away their lives for my sake and for the sake of the Good News will ever know what it means to really live. Sam was living proof of what it means to really live.

Prayer:

Father,
          I pray comfort for Debra, Rachel and Katie and all the other Tuckers and friends who have been left behind. I pray for anyone reading this who has lost someone dear to them and still feels the overwhelming pangs of grief. I thank You for the peace that was prevalent in today's service, and I pray, Father, that You would manifest Your peace that truly passes understanding to those in need of it. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen