Ridgell's Originals

 Maria White went home to Jesus last week.  It was beautiful and holy.

Maria loved Jesus.  She was in our Youth Group back in the early 70's.  So was Gary, who later became her husband.  Both committed followers of Jesus even as teenagers.  They became a real power couple for Jesus.  Gary served for a number of years as an elder and I can only imagine the incredible spiritual counseling that came from them.  She passed her love for the Lord to her girls and her grands.

She had a heart for the downtrodden.  Started an low-income apartment ministry.  Inspired lots of others to join her in that work.  Involved in Freedom Fellowship, a ministry/church/community for those on the edges of society.  

She lived her faith.  Struggled some with depression issues and turned her experiences into a ministry helping others.  Living example of a Christian wife, mother, and grandmother.  Always available to talk, pray, study, or listen.  Gave Godly advice.  

She died her faith.  You don't always see that.  But the last year of Maria's life was one of ministry, both in word and by example.  You went to see her and pray over her, and you ended up getting prayed over.  Left feeling better and more inspired.  Maria would have loved to be healed her on earth.  Would have enjoyed growing old with Gary, enjoying her family, watching her grands grow up.  But at the same time she was really into whatever God chose to do.  Not afraid to die, looking forward to seeing Jesus.  

We have known and loved Gary and Maria for a long time.  Marsha communicated with them every week.  And I am thankful for their example.  

Today I see heaven a little clearer.  Death is less of a threat.  Family is more cherished.  And I am inspired to love people more.  Especially those on the edges.  To help them find Jesus.

And someday they will get to know Maria.  

Hope of heaven.

See you soon.

# posted by Steve @ 5:00 AM