1 Corinthians 3:10 By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. (NIV)
My Uncle Bill died last night. He was a great man.
He was a master carpenter, as well as a teacher, and could turn his hand to anything. I was always impressed by everything that he made and wished for a while that I could just be like him. He was a very dignified man and highly dependable. When our family went through a hard time because of my Mom’s illness, Uncle Bill and the rest of my Aunts and Uncles rallied round to look after us kids. It was a kindness that I have never forgotten; it was a blessing that will always remain within me.
Years ago, on my last church tour of Scotland, both he and my Aunt Anne organized their congregation to welcome and receive our large group into their hearts and homes. It was a wonderful way to show us true Scottish hospitality and I greatly appreciated their help.
When my Uncle Bill was an apprentice, he had to build something from wood to show that he had learned all of the necessary skills to become a carpenter. He decided to make a writing desk with many compartments, drawers, and a fold down writing platform. It was built from a beautiful red wood and remained in my grandfather’s home for decades. When I became a minister, I was given it to help me with my work. It has now crossed the Atlantic and is sitting in my upstairs study. Today, it means so much more to me.
We all make something with our lives and the Bible tells us to build ourselves on Christ’s foundation, something that my Uncle Bill did throughout his life. I know he is in a better place and that he has met the Master Carpenter face-to-face. I am so thankful in my heart for all that he was and will remain within my family’s memory.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the foundation that You have built and the many ways we can build our lives upon it. Be with our families; embrace them with Your love and assure them with Your grace. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.