Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.” Matthew 5:4 (KJV)

In recent days in the community in which I live two life long residents have passed away, and their families are mourning their losses.  The first was discovered by a neighbor  in his home; the other died in a tragic tractor and haybaler accident on a hillside.  The people in Jenkins and Barry County are strong and resilient people, and were strong at the funerals.

A friend of mine, and fellow School Bus driver passed away on Thursday after suffering a very short bout with what had been diagnosed as bone cancer in the beginning, then I do not know, after they changed that diagnosis. His funeral is tomorrow [June 13].

There is much mourning in our world over the deaths of family members and friends.

What do I want for Christmas?

I want those families to be comforted, encouraged, and blessed; and if those family members and friends do not know the Lord; I want you to know that Jesus loves you so much that He died for you.

I want us to mourn for our sins; to be grieved when we have offended God in our iniquities, and transgressions; and to seek His forgiveness.