Ridgell's Originals

 So it has been a couple of weeks now since Jim went to heaven.  He was just a few years older but we did a lot of ministry together in the early days of youth ministry.  Spoke at the same events.  Did retreats for each other.  And I spoke every few years at the church where Jim stayed for decades.

But those are not the things I remember about Jim. 

I remember how much Jim loved his family.   Loved his wife Sue, and his kids.  Adored his grands. And Jim loved his church family.

Jim loved using life stories to talk about Jesus.  I remember his telling how he made his car his god when he was in high school.  And then one day his car died.  So did his god.  It was a good way to talk about the real God.

Jim was loyal to his church.  They really were his family.  Thru good times and bad, he loved his people.  

And wanted everyone he met to know that Jesus loved them.

And Jim died well.  He knew it was coming and it was OK.  In some ways quick, but certain it was coming.  And he was OK.  Lots of people can live well.  Some can preach well.  Few die well.  But Jim died just like he lived.  Looking at Jesus.

Well done, Jim, well done.

# posted by Steve @ 5:00 AM