This was what a friend of mine said when he visited the last day of my father’s wake.
We packed the church as if there was a Saturday night anticipated Mass.
Swarms of people came from near and far to pay their respects to the most loving man I know.
I believe that’s why they were there as well.
They felt his love.
Friends he kept in touch with throughout the years.
Friends he wasn’t able to keep in touch with but who nonetheless felt just as comfortable when they met up occasionally.
Community members he shepherded.
Kids he affirmed by patting them on the shoulders after they performed a song number he directed.
People he gave jobs to.
People whose jobs he made lighter and more fun by his mere presence.
Our household helpers who stayed with us for years.
Their children whom he sent to school without anyone knowing about it.
Relatives who considered him the Santa Clause of the family — not just because of his big belly, but because of his big heart.
Looking at this vast crowd, I said to myself, “Man, this guy was well loved.”
I believe that’s what Heaven is all about — loving each other.
That said, we get a glimpse of Heaven every time we love each other here on Earth.
It’s God’s love that saves us.
Not just once during a salvation prayer or an altar call, but at every moment that we share His love with others.
That’s what Dad did.
That’s what we ought to do for each other.
In Him,
GEORGE GABRIEL
0 comments:
Post a Comment