A month ago, I posted about our loss of Ann Joyner, my son-in-law, Trey's, mom. This past weekend, we attended her celebration of life ceremony in Brunswick, GA. Trey, a close family friend, and Ann's husband, Rocky, all spoke about their memories of her. She loved to fish, lead worship and teach women's Bible study, which she did for 35 consecutive years. But most of all, she loved spending time with her children and her five grandchildren. All of the speakers acknowledged their intense pain but expressed hope, certain they will see her again in heaven one day. The service was held at a nearby church instead of their home church, because the family was concerned the smaller sanctuary would not accommodate everyone. After the service, which over 200 people attended, the pastor invited everyone to a meal in the fellowship hall and outside under tents brought in for the occasion. Everyone gathered around tables and shared stories that didn't make it into the official order of worship. I later learned that the whole meal which included fried chicken, sides and a whole table of desserts, was provided and served by members of the host church. Some of them knew Ann, but many did not. The whole day was a beautiful portrait of what the Church is supposed to look like, and I am honored to have witnessed it. I can't imagine what this day would be without the Church and without a relationship with the One who designed it.
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