Last evening I had the privilege of presiding over the memorial service for Nancy Goettman, a long time church member and a servant on our team here at North Way for about 15 years, up until about the year 2001.
What struck me, once again, was the impact of one person’s life even if it seems to be somewhat “hidden and obscure” from the public eye.
Nancy worked tirelessly behind the scenes to administrate and facilitate the necessary communication of our church family. She also made a difference by caring for people when she could, despite some physical limitations in her later years.
However, far beyond that, she had friends and family members who were there to express their profound appreciation for the way Nancy had affected them and remember her constant testimony to the grace of Jesus in her life.
Sometimes we may wonder if we really are making a difference. I know I ask that question of myself from time to time. However, a life that’s lived faithfully and consistently for Jesus inevitably will produce fruit far beyond that which we can even begin to imagine.
Take encouragement from that if this is one of those days where you wonder if you really matter in the plan of God.
Blessings,
Dr. Jay
Dave Longstreth said:
ReplyDeleteHow true that perspective we receive when we lose someone close to us. A few years ago both one of the best seasons and worst seasons of life occurred and almost simultaneously. That year my dad was diagnosed with cancer, which would end his life only 10 months later - at the same time my first child was brought into this world, a precious little girl.
The months after were filled with joy and grief, but more than that with a deep sense of reverence and reflection. It was through that journey that this thought of "one life" having the power and influence to actually see the world changed in some way became an idea that I've shared with anyone that I've had more than a five-minute conversation with.
We've been given one life to make a difference in the world, one chance to leave a legacy. Blessings!