A Sweet Pillar

Precious  in the sight of the Lord,

is the death of His saints.

Psalm 116:15

It's been awhile since I have played the piano for a funeral, but did this week in honor of a dear lady I met when Brian and I first moved to this precious place.  We joined the Baptist church then as it had been our vacation church for years.  We didn't hesitate.  We loved the preacher, his wife and so many dear folks who were members.  It didn't take long until the pastor asked me to teach a ladies class and then the need for a pianist came up and I became the pianist.

I had first noticed the really nice Hammond organ in the church.  I have loved that brand and still do.  I had played one off and on in other places but didn't talk about that.  The church already had an organist...LaVerne.  She and her family still are  such a huge part of our town's history.  LaVerne was a single lady, very educated and lived down the road from the church.  She always had a smile and sweet spirit.

Our church was all LaVerne had known.  Her family had been such a part in it's building along with adding a lovely cemetery right next to the church.  In our time at the church, I don't recall her missing a single service.  The last few years have been especially difficult for her health-wise so she's not been able for some time to play the instrument she has loved so dearly.  I have heard it's the organ her father gave to the church.

LaVerne went to Heaven just days ago.  She had been ill for sometime and her homegoing didn't come as a surprise.  Her funeral was just a day ago and I was honored to be the pianist for that service.  However, our former pastor preached the funeral and what he said was so significant regarding her life.  He used the theme of a PILLAR,  explaining what they are and the need for them.  LaVerne was every bit one of the pillars in that church, a pillar that could be counted on by her loyalty, service, generosity...all  because of her love for the Lord.

Pillars aren't very often noticed when they are supports for a building but what they do is vital to the safety of a building and those inside.  I asked myself if I can be counted on as much as LaVerne was in her love and service.  Our churches need pillars like her and hope the Lord is finding you and me that faithful and more.

Father, I don't mean to honor LaVerne more than You but it's been You working in her all these years.  May we too be determined to be folks of faithful service, not for show but because of our love and gratitude for You.  In Jesus name....Amen