This past weekend we mourned the loss of a spiritual giant who left an amazing legacy at Advent and beyond.  We also celebrate his going into glory.  Saturday night I spent with several men who had known Ron for over 30 years each.  It was wonderful to sit around and share stories of his life and impact and I was particular struck by some of the wise sayings he left with myself and others.  It reminded me of several of the passages like that in the books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes.  Let’s look at one such example today.

A good name is better than fine perfume,
    and the day of death better than the day of birth.

It is better to go to a house of mourning
    than to go to a house of feasting,
for death is the destiny of everyone;
    the living should take this to heart.

Frustration is better than laughter,
    because a sad face is good for the heart.

The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning,
    but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure.

It is better to heed the rebuke of a wise person
    than to listen to the song of fools.

Like the crackling of thorns under the pot,
    so is the laughter of fools.
    This too is meaningless.

Extortion turns a wise person into a fool,
    and a bribe corrupts the heart.

The end of a matter is better than its beginning,
    and patience is better than pride.

Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit,
    for anger resides in the lap of fools.

During times of loss there will always be mourning.  I encourage you during times of mourning that you face in life to share with others memories and encouragements from your loved ones life.  It is a way to honor and celebrate them, but it also is a good way to work through your grief with others.  We shared stories of Advent, Haiti, motorhomes, men’s trips, the keys, and of course Jesus.  Congratulations Ron Dingle on a life well lived!  Enjoy the arms of your Savior and friend, Jesus.

In His Grip,

Pastor Dave