Celebration of Life - Susan’s Story

But life can be tough and messy…handing out more than even the strongest can handle at times. Susan had more than her share of challenges through no fault of her own. As she tried to figure out how to navigate these difficult and confusing things, the depression and anxiety could sometimes get the best of her. And that is what happened on Wednesday of this week. In deepest desperation, it all just became too much.

But what we have to remember here, that like Susan…all of you were doing your very best, too, with the situation…trying to navigate the difficult situation. So important…very important…for us to remember is that no one here…no one is to take on blame or is to be blamed for Susan’s desperate move. In the Methodist Church, we believe the scripture text that “nothing can separate us from the love of God” (Romans 8:38-39). And as a church, our Discipline clearly states “deplore the condemnation of people who in desperation complete suicide.” Our understanding is that the loving God wanted at least 80+ years for Susan. And that even when Susan was in her most desperate hour, God would have been saying, “NO, NO, Susan! Wait!” But when the events turn out like they did, we truly believe that Susan was welcomed home by a loving God who, as Pastor Nicole read to us, reminds us that Jesus prepared a place just for Susan. I want you to imagine that place today as being one that is a beautiful paradise of her. That might include birds of all colors, music, a softball glove andpeople that she loved who have gone before her.

Today, Dear Friends, Susan has started her next chapter. Tomorrow we celebrate Easter. Tomorrow at this time, Christians everywhere around the world world remember the promise of eternal life. Even for Jesus…this world was too much. Jesus, who, like Susan, loved all creatures great and small, had a very difficult time in this world. Yet, when his brutal death happened, death did not have the final say. The scripture tell us, “Death, where is your victory? Death, where is your sting? Thanks be to God who gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Easter morning brings newness of life…hope that the springtime will bring a chance to start over. Hope, that I believe, Susan wanted most deeply for all creatures, great and small.

Friends andFamily, I have no doubt that Susan is with Jesus today; she is whole and healthy…and at her most beautiful self.

And in this oh so perfect state of being…this place called heaven…I think she would want us to remember the very best about her life. If I could be so bold to speak for Susan on this beautiful spring day, I think she might say to us: “Enjoy today, go for a walk, or if you can, ride your bicycle or walk your dog, throw a ball. Enjoy your music...tell a joke. Smile and have compassion for those around you.Try your best at everything you do. Forgive me if I hurt you…don’t’ blame yourselves for difficult times. Live the best lives you can to honor me. I am whole and free from pain today. I love youall. Susan.

Susan is with God, Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift.

All this in the name of our Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer…Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. To honor Susan.

Will you pray with me,

“Gracious God, we thank you for Susan’s life. We thank you that she lived among us and for the goodness of her life. We ask that you help us to always remember the best parts of her life, that we might have our own resurrection moments, today, tomorrow, and in the spring days ahead that newness of life will come to each person here as they liveforward with peace and assurance. All this in your son’s name…Amen.”

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