Let Us Remember

Hello Edgemont,

One of the harder parts of this time of pandemic is the separation that is required to limit the spread of Covid-19. This has bled into so many different aspects of our lives. The standard things we would do to mark significant events are not happening the way they would usually; maybe none harder than the passing of a loved one.

We have lost several of our family at Edgemont since social distancing began. Losing one we love is difficult in normal times, but in times like these we often haven’t been given outlets to mourn as we would normally. Today, I wanted to give space to remember those who have passed away while we have been apart.

Wanda Lee Corley—At my very first prayer breakfast after coming to Edgemont, Wanda Lee (not Mrs. Corley) warmly greeted me and then promptly got me to work writing cards. She was so faithful to come participate at Prayer Breakfast and was an expert card stuffer. She had a quick smile and an easy laugh and was a joy to be around.

Jim “Doc” Holladay —Doc and I had many fun conversations discussing our favorite teams, Alabama and Auburn. He was always up for a good talk and some gentle ribbing. He was quick with a compliment and was passionate about seeing Edgemont looking its best. I loved to watch him and whoever he would usher with race to the front of the first service to get the offering plates.

Helen Schol—Helen was a quiet member of our first service but was never without a smile on her face. It was important that she got her hugs on Sunday morning. She loved to hear the choir sing.

Joyce Butler—Joyce always loved making quilts to celebrate a variety of occasions. She made them for new babies, new couples, to honor veterans, and as gifts. She spent many hours before and after prayer breakfast putting the labels on our envelopes, just to make sure the group had an easier time.

I could go on about each of these wonderful saints. I encourage each of us to remember a time with each of these dear Edgemont members. As we remember, we also look forward, knowing that this is not the end. Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 15:51-58,

Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

I am thankful that they have achieved the victory because of their faith in Jesus Christ and that one day we will too.

Thanks be to God

Pastor Henry