Absent – and Accounted For

2 Corinthians 5:8 (NKJV) – “We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.”

        Yesterday, my favorite uncle, Arthur Houser, Sr., took an unfortunate spill and fell into the swimming pool at his retirement facility.  After valiant efforts of residents, my cousin and emergency paramedic staff administering CPR, he transitioned from entrapment in a semi-paralyzed physical body to total spiritual freedom with God.  We shall of course miss his laughter, teasing and merriment; for he truly was a gregarious soul who loved making sure that all in his presence knew they were special; but he is now truly free. To everyone who knew my “Uncle Nee” rest assured he is in no more pain.  While he was wheelchair bound trapped in a physical body that suffered from the ills of mortal life, he is now standing proudly on two strong spiritual legs; waving and clapping uplifted arms and hearing the Father say…”well done; good and faithful servant.”   Thank you Lord for the 57 years he impacted my life; and for the words, wisdom, discipline and love he shared so freely. 
      I am so glad that I spent quality time with him and my aunt just two days before his untimely transition. He is now in a better place and I can’t wait to see him in heaven and remind him that he still owes me ‘50₵’ from our bet on the boxing match. 

        Make sure you tell someone today how much you love them; or ask for forgiveness; or reconcile a misunderstanding or tell a lost soul about Jesus and the hope of salvation. Tomorrow isn’t promised and you may never get another opportunity beyond today.  To God be the Glory!  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day!  Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn