JACKIE'S MOM AND THE JOURNEY

Hello, all. Like most earth dwellers, we've been through some challenging times as have many of our friends. On April 10th, after a long fight with some mysterious disease, Jackie's mom died. Over there on your left is how she looked when I was allowed into the family. That's at Jackie's wedding shower.

The funeral was on April 26th and it was a time of grieving, saying our good byes and a time to reflect on the Lord's goodness to us all. It was a time when much of the family was all together in one place and where we heard, again, the good news of the resurrection and the promises to those who live their lives for Christ. The funeral home had a pastor come and speak and that was a special surprise and blessing. I talked to him a bit by email and when I met him at the funeral home I found out he was a former YWAMer who had served in Africa. Small world. I shared a bit from my perspective about her life and how she exemplified the life of a care giver and servant to others.

Del, who she was married to when I came into the family, died of brain cancer. She kept him at home and cared for him throughout his time of dying and suffering. Her 2nd husband, Harold, died of Alzheimer's and she was at the home daily where he had to stay as his mind deteriorated and needed around the clock care. Whenever there was a need, she was there to give help and support. What an example she was to us as one who gives their all so that others might be comfortable.

Another soft spot in her life was playing with the grandkids and great grandkids. I don't think anything brought her more joy than to be surrounded by her kids--every generation of them. Elijah, our youngest grand son, cried and cried and cried when he realized what had happened. Tears shed testify of love given. Over there on the right is the ever hostess. Justine had to have everyone over to her house for any holiday or excuse so she could prepare a gigantic meal of some sort. But that wasn't enough--she then would try and clean it all up.

When Jackie and I dated, Del and Justine weren't Christians. The strangest thing happened though. We got married, went on our honeymoon and when we came home a few days later, they had become Christians and were going to our church. What a blessing that was and is to us.



There on the left is some of the family. It's a much bigger group when everyone gets together. This was taken a few years ago, before we went to Thailand.






We had about a week's warning, though we didn't really know it, that Justine would soon die. Jackie's sisters went over to see her and celebrate her birthday. Jackie wasn't able to travel because of her knee and was sad. She did talk to her on the phone the night before she died so that was a blessing. Here they are a couple of years ago.





Here's Jackie with her 2 sisters and mom. It's a good thing to have family.

We are always grateful to all of you who have prayed for us and for Justine. When we first heard of her illness we were in Thailand. Jackie flew back and stayed with her for 3 months and you guys supported us with prayers and even your finances. Times like that are never forgotten and people like you are always cherished. We count ourselves as blessed because we have folks like you that care and pray for us. Thank you so much.

We continue our journey toward Christ. A couple of weeks ago Jackie and I became a part of St. Justins Orthodox church. On the left, Fr. Ted is anointing us with oil, praying for the Holy Spirit's filling and joining us to the church.











On the right is Fr. Arkadi. He's a Russian Priest who is leading a Russian speaking service for immigrants. He's a giant and such a tender hearted man. That's Leah next to Jackie. For you old timers who were around with us in the Charismatic wild days, I've met a Don Basham look alike. He's standing in the back just to the right of Leah's head.

We are all on a journey. Justine has begun a new one and we are also on a new one, though we are still earth bound. It is with Godly hope that we will be joining our loved ones in the place of rest where the brightness and countenance of God ever lights their lives. May His joy and mercies be yours in abundance.

Bob and Jackie