Old Friends

I'll be saying "goodbye" to one old friend today and tomorrow. Jon D was in and out of my life for most of my years, but he was always someone special to me.

You see...he was the little brother of one of my very good friends. Who I just happen to have not had much contact with in recent years. But lately, we've been doing some catching up.

And some of our memories make me laugh.

Like when we all were loaded up in a van headed to Eureka Springs to see the Passion Play. And Jon was...oh...2-ish. And he would just run up and down that van (before the whole car seat requirement) squealing at the top of his lungs! And we 9young youth) would squeal right along with him. We drove the parents crazy on that trip.

And some of our memories make me cry.

Like the day I came back to my old home church to visit folks and Jon was there in his wheelchair. And we sang "Do Lord". And oh, the joy that flowed from Jonathan. It was such a testament to God's grace to me. Even as a young adult.

As a matter of fact...Jonathan's entire life has been such a testament of God's grace. You see...the Bible tells us in Ephesians 4 that we are given God's grace in order that we may edify one another. And while I don't know the reason God allowed Jon's life to be filled with so many struggles, I do know one thing...that He sure edified me!

You can view his obituary by clicking here, but I can't leave without sharing this song...it was the first song I thought of when I found out he had left this world.

Go Rest High by Vince Gill

I know your life
On earth was troubled
And only you could know the pain
You weren't afraid to face the devil
You were no stranger to the rain

Go rest high on that mountain
Son, you work on earth is done
Go to heaven a shoutin'
Love for the Father and Son

Oh, how we cried the day you left us
We gathered round your grave to grieve
I wish I could see the angels faces
When they hear your sweet voice sing

Go rest high on that mountain
Son, you work on earth is done
Go to heaven a shoutin'
Love for the Father and Son