Monday, November 10, 2008

Legacy

My family becomes smaller and smaller. We have lost yet another member. My Uncle Art went suddenly to be with Jesus on Friday. (my birthday) He had just been here for a visit less than two weeks before. Oh I am so grateful for that time! He was older and had lived a full life, yet the sting and the hole he has left in our family...it will never be the same. We will never be the same for having had his example in our lives. I am not sure I have ever known someone who exemplified what is means to be "Christ-like" as much as my Uncle Art. Always with a verse or a hymn on his lips. Never shying away from sharing his faith. Oh he loved Jesus and longed for the day that he would be there with my Auntie Jean. (she too died suddenly, just two years ago)

He has left a legacy for anyone who knew him. Many came to know Christ because of him. Lives were saved because of him - in the war. (he has a purple heart) I have just this moment realized something! There has been a "deep sadness" over my life since Friday. This is to be expected with a loss but I knew it was more than that. It just occurred to me that with Uncle Art's death came the passing of someone who daily lifted me up in prayer. That is what is missing. He was heartbroken over my marriage. He and Don shared a bond like no other. It's one that I cannot explain and he was devastated to learn that Don had left. Writing a letter to him and lifting us up in prayer fervently. He and my aunt were vigilant in their prayers for their family. That covering will be physically felt.

What kind of legacy am I leaving? Will others know of my God because of my life? Is my life about me or about HIM? Do I take my responsibility and privilege to pray for others seriously? I want to leave a legacy...Lord may I take what you taught me through my uncle and leave a mark on those who you have placed in my life. Teach me to pray for Don, David & Ellie. Help me to live my life as a display of your grace. Thank you for those who you surrounded me with. Thank you for the heritage.




24 comments:

Kimberly said...

Sherly,

What a beautiful legacy your uncle left for you guys and what a beautiful tribute you paid to him here! Praying for you today and always my friend!

GIANT HUGS AND MUCH LOVE,
KB

UL Cards Fan said...

OH Sheryl,

I am so sorry to learn of your uncle's death. He sounded like a great man of God. I know he will continue to watch over you and your family , including Don.

You are definitely leaving a LEGACY of faith; for your children, your family, your friends, and even your estranged husband.

It is NO accident that God has brought such an unlikely cast of characters together in this special forum. It is hard to explain this deep bond we share. God is honoring your obedience. Thank you for "leading" us.

Love you more each day,

LINDA

Becca and Dee said...

Lovely tribute. Precious memories.

Praying for you.

Becca

Technonana said...

What a touching Tribute!! I pray others will follow his example.
I know God will bless you richly as you share the life story of this precious Uncle.
Praying that God will give you comfort and peace in this time of loss.
Love,
Sharon

Jennifer said...

Praying for you tonight. Beautiful words for a beautiful person. May his legacy always stay with you and your family.

Amrita said...

May the Lord comfort you Sheryl

Unknown said...

Sheryl,

Oh to be like your uncle. Always sharing the Word or a hymn...and sharing Christ with others.

What a wonderful legacy...isn't it neat how God has given you a "cyber" outlet in which to share our Lord's salvation.

Kim in NC said...

Love this song. The words that always stand out to me are "did I choose to love, did I point to You?" When it's all said and done, this is what matters. Your uncle Art's witness and testimony will live on through the many lives he touched, including yours.

So sorry for your family's loss.

Praying for you.

Kim

Angela Baylis said...

I'm so sorry for your loss! You have a friend here in Michigan who is still praying for you! I am so happy you had an Uncle Art who was Christ-like! You were so Blessed by having him in your life! Did you know my dad's (who passed away) name is Arthur? Yep... a great name!
I'm very sorry! You are leaving a legacy in case you didn't know! All will remember you for being such a special Godly woman! I know this for sure!
Lots of Love,
Angie xoxo

Debra Kaye said...

Sheryl,

How precious is the legacy that your Uncle left for you. And I'm sorry you are hurting ~ loss is so hard in whatever the capacity.

Just from this post, I would say that your legacy is going to be just as beautiful as your Uncle's!

Blessings to you today!

Paula V said...

I'm sorry for your loss. It sounds as though it was a huge loss for many.

You are definitely leaving a legacy with your faith.
Love to you,
Paula

Anonymous said...

outstanding, yes I want to live she loved JESUS & told people bout him sespcalley ehr familey & she prayed for small things & big things.You my Homey will be know as an Angel a very strong person.Somoene that loves our Lord 7 many others. Vicky

Susan said...

Sadie,
(For those reading, yes, I know her name is Sheryl, but she would choose Sadie for a name. :)
I'm so sorry for your loss. But when you questioned what kind of legacy you are leaving, I had to let you know it will be a legacy of mercy and grace, like the song says. What a beautiful legacy. Thank you...from the heart of Texas.

Lila (Susan)

~Amy~ said...

Sheryl,
I am so sorry for your loss. God will give you strength to carry on. Bless you sweetie

Sharon said...

This is beautiful, and what a tribute for him.
Please know that I am praying for you my friend!! I am so sorry for your loss, but sounds like he has left lasting memories!

Blessings
Sharon

Debra Kaye said...

I wanted to stop by and tell you that I said a prayer for you right now :)

((hugs)) sweet sis!

J C said...

Truly sorry to hear about your loss, but rejoicing to hear that He's with the Saviour. You will see him again!

Susan said...

Hey Sheryl,

I'm so sorry to read about your uncle.

I've often think about my legacy as well. (I pray it's a good one.)

So, you had a birthday and didn't let us know?

I pray God continues to bless and watch over you this year. I pray for strength, for courage and a continued resolve to serve and bless Him each and every day.


Thanking God for you♥

Joy Junktion said...

What a wonderful gift your Uncle had ~ a heart to pray! I am sorry that you are suffering another loss.
We all leave a legacy behind ~ good or bad ~ thank you for reminding us that we need to 'pray' more attention to our lives.
Cindy

Tonya said...

Sheryl, I came over to THANK YOU for the b'day wishes. It was SO KIND of you to think of me.

I'm sorry to hear about your uncle. (And happy belated b'day to you too)

My prayers are with you, my friend!

Jules (Sporty Mama) said...

Sheryl,

I am sorry to hear about your uncle! He sounds like a wonderful man. I also wanted to wish you a belated birthday! And to assure you that you are certainly leaving a wonderful legacy for Christ!

Julie Anna

Anonymous said...

Sheryl,

thank you so much for sharing!

your post totally touched my heart

I am so sorry to hear about your uncle passing. what a wonderful Godly example he has been for you and your children! it sounds like the Lord used Him mightily in the lives of so many! that is awesome!!

please know I will be holding you up in prayer.

Love ya
Jill

Beverly said...

Thanks for stopping by...it is so nice to come to visit at your blog!

I would think that you are leaving a wonderful legacy with your faith!

Pam said...

well, i am finally traveling over to your blog... i am amazed by God and His ability to bring people together that need support... did you read what I posted about my grandpa last week? it so reminded me of what you wrote about your uncle... and i love this song Legacy... i need to add that to my music... so glad God has brought us together in this time... and I am praying for your complete healing... i really believe you are going to get it.