Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Writer, Interrupted

A week ago today, we got word that a dear friend and church family member passed away. In the early morning hours last Sunday, he had a massive heart attack and, in a matter of minutes, left behind a wife and four children, with countless friends and family members. This man was young and active... I still have trouble grasping that he's truly gone.

So in the last seven days - during which time seemed suspended - I haven't done a lick of writing or editing. And you know what? That's a good thing. As important as my writing is, it seems so trivial in comparison to spending time with and helping our church family. I wouldn't give these last few days - as unpleasant as they were - for a fully-edited manuscript.

I'll close this post with the words of a song, beautiful in its simplicity; one I was asked to sing with a Sister at the graveside service. It was an honor to have raised my voice in a ministry of music. For my friend. Rest in peace, LS.

Let Jesus Be My Lord
words and music by Stacey King

When the twilight turns to darkness
let Jesus be my light.
When my lack of faith brings blindness
let Jesus be my sight.
When stormy seas blow 'round me
let Jesus be my port.
When the war of mankind rages
let Jesus be my fort.

And when my time on earth is ended
my soul to God restored,
let me walk into the brightness
and let Jesus be my Lord.

When peace on earth seems hopeless
let Jesus be my dove.
When earthly woes bring hatred
let Jesus be my love.
When my spirit's flight be broken
let Jesus be my wing.
When the nations choose their rulers
let Jesus be my king.

And when my time on earth is ended
my soul to God restored,
let me walk into the brightness
and let Jesus be my Lord.

8 comments:

Michele said...

I'm so sorry for your loss, Janna. I understand what you're going through. Your heart is in the right place. Writing can wait, lending a hand in a painful time of need can't.

My prayers are with you and the young man's family...

*hugs*
Michele

WendyCinNYC said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your friend, Janna. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.

Janna Leadbetter said...

Thanks so much, ladies. I really appreciate your kind words and prayers.

Melanie Hooyenga said...

(Woot, blogger's back.)

Janna, it sounds like you've taken a much deserved break. Focusing on loved ones is the most important thing and I'm glad you were able to take the time to grieve.

Travis Erwin said...

Sorry for your loss.

Anonymous said...

So sorry, Janna.

hugs
kimmi

Janet said...

:o(

So sorry to hear about this. I've been AWOL for a week too, but in my case it was for a joyful occasion.

I'm impressed that you were able to sing on such an occasion without choking up.

Janna Leadbetter said...

Thanks, Kimmi and Janet. And Janet, my emotions were a concern of mine all week; my prayers were heavy. My practice runs in front Hubby before the service didn't go well, but I did get through it for the real deal... and broke into sobs after the last note. I was blessed in that.