Three years ago, on December the 4th, Amy Jo Boone died, in India. She was only 28 years old, a cherished wife, a beloved daughter and the mother of a brand new baby girl. She was also a loved and valued member of the Servants India team. Each of us who knew her lost someone very special in our lives.
Amy Jo was my friend. In her usual generous way, she sent me her favourite daily meditation book by Frederic Buechner, in which she had underlined a passage. I share the following with you, in memory of Amy Jo – and Jesus. “when you remember me, it means you have carried something of who I am with you. That I have left some mark of who I am on who you are. It means you can summon me back to your mind even though countless years may stand between us. It means that if we ever meet again, you will know me. It means that even after I die, you can still see my face and hear my voice and speak to me in your heart. For as long as you remember me, I am never entirely lost. When I’m feeling most ghost-like, it’s your remembering me that helps remind me that I actually exist. When I am feeling sad, it’s my consolation. If you forget me, one of the ways I remember who I am will be gone. If you forget me, part of who I am will be gone.”
‘Tis the season of birthdays, and death days, of celebration, and bittersweet memories. ‘Tis the time when we prepare our hearts to receive the gift of Jesus, wrapped in grace and tied with ribbons of love. Although our sadness is not yet taken away, may the presence of the One who came, but is still to come, continue to touch our hearts. Happy Christmas fellow travellers.
Ngaire Gee
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