Today is All Saints Day 2011. Regular readers know that while I do not observe it in a “saints day” fashion, for a while now it has been my tradition to use the day to reflect on those I have known who joined the Church Triumphant in the last year and the impact they had on my own life.

For the last year I remember-

Leo – A talented and faithful teaching elder with many skills that were always used in a pastoral manner

Barbara – Who in spite of a stroke and the physical challenges it brought was so very faithful in attending worship and so positive in her outlook on life.  Yet, she was not afraid of asking for prayer when she needed it.

John – A long time friend who accomplished much in his life and did not believe there was anything he could not do, in spite of what our society would identify as a disability.

Elizabeth – Another faithful servant whose smile was infectious and who always had a cheerful and encouraging word to say, usually about my parenting.

I also remember Steven, a good friend that I lost this year who everyone described as a “good man.” I am struggling to trust him to the sovereign wisdom of our faithful, just and merciful God and keep telling myself that “In life and death we belong to God.”

And as I remember those who have gone to be with the Lord, I also take the time to rejoice that God has permitted two good friends to remain with us a bit longer. At one point this year each seemed to be close to joining the great cloud of faithful witnesses but God’s healing touch has preserved them in the Church Militant. (A very apt description for both of them.)

Finally, as I put together my list I was struck that although my list was short this year I know of many friends for whom their list includes at least one parent and the year has been a hard one.  In your mercy Lord, hear our prayer for them.

For we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses and on this day I give thanks for those that have touched my life.  To God Alone Be The Glory.

[Lyrics – excerpts from There is a Higher Throne by Keith Getty and Kristyn Lennox Getty. For a video rendition check this one out.]