The Death of a Saint

So much has happened in the past week.
A dear gentleman I know died and is now in Heaven.
More than just a dear man, he is the father of a lady who is like a second mother to me.

Seeing her, her family, and all his children and grandchildren in grief and pain was, and still is, awful.
I am going to miss him.  He always had a hug and a kiss on the cheek for me.
He always asked how my mom and brother were.
He would say, "How is your Mama and brother?" (or something almost to that)

His dear sweet wife is still with us.  Her response to his death was beautiful and reassuring.
She told me, "It was his time, and he is no longer in pain." (again, the quote may not be perfect)
While I know she misses him, and I cannot imagine losing a spouse, she knows where he is.
She will see him again.

Hebrews 12:1 has come to mind numerous times.
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw of everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." (NIV)

He is a witness to the greatness of God. 

I am privileged and thankful to have known Mr. Rene for nine years.