Relationships are worth it all

Today was the first of our annual WIC Fall kickoff luncheon at Westminster PCA. It was amazing. I looked around the room, thought of the stories these women carry and have shared with me, and thanked God for giving the gift of friends.

My dear sweet friend, Laura, spoke about the good news of the gospel and how it frees us up to be real, transparent, and authentic with one another. She stressed the Biblical mandate to carry one another's burdens....what freedom! There's a song that we love to sing at church but I have never been so moved by it like I was this morning when we sang in unison as a group with the soft piano. The song is called, "It Is Not Death To Die", an old hymn, new arrangement by Sovereign Grace Music (album, Come Weary Saints - I posted the lyrics below). Not a dry eye in the room.....the gospel at work, moving souls, building friendships, healing hearts, mending relationships, reconciling us to each other, drawing us to Himself. Being in a room, surrounded by close friends, looking at the relationships God has given - all reasons to be overjoyed and to look forward to seeing Jesus.

I'm excited about gathering for worship with these women tomorrow.....I truly am.

I love you, ladies. You are my family and I'm so glad God gave you to me.

It Is Not Death To Die

It is not death to die
To leave this weary road
And join the saints who dwell on high
Who’ve found their home with God
It is not death to close
The eyes long dimmed by tears
And wake in joy before Your throne
Delivered from our fears

CHORUS:
O Jesus, conquering the grave
Your precious blood has power to save
Those who trust in You
Will in Your mercy find
That it is not death to die

It is not death to fling
Aside this earthly dust
And rise with strong and noble wing
To live among the just
It is not death to hear
The key unlock the door
That sets us free from mortal years
To praise You evermore