Not Goodby, But See You Later

Yesterday I provided some music for the memorial service of a friend of mine who passed away earlier this week. I played with him years ago in the worship team I am now a part of at my church. He was a skilled guitarist who had a passion for music. He breathed, slept, and lived for music. He even had his own studio with enough equipment to be a music store! It was fun having him in the band, and I would get a kick out of just watching him start a song. In fact, everyone would be waiting for him to do his guitar riff. I remember one particular song that either he or I would be able to start the song. Since he was taking so long to remember, I started it on the keyboard....which he wasn't too happy about! He enjoyed playing in several churches, and would float around.
He also had a passion for Jesus. I believe he knew that his passion for music was given to him to glorify His Lord and Savior. And he did that well. He left a legacy of being a husband, father, brother, coworker and friend, who loved Jesus and loved playing his guitar.
At the altar, among the flowers, were pictures of him, and his guitar. It was seeing that guitar that touched my heart. It sank in that he would no longer be playing it. His fingers would no longer be strumming it, making it do what guitars should do.
Knowing for a fact that he is now with Jesus is very comforting for his family and friends. We are separated now, but only for a short time. I wrote a song that was recently recorded in Nashville by a friend of mine, Jim Dunmire. Welcome Home was sung at the memorial service. Here are the lyrics:

In the twinkling of an eye, a shout will fill the air.

The dead in Christ will rise to finally meet Him there.

We who will remain in Him will join them in the sky.

Together we will see His face, no longer asking why.

Welcome home....Welcome home.

Tears will be replaced by songs of endless joy.

Loved ones at our side will make a joyful noise.

Surrounded by His radiant love, everyone will know.

A grand reunion's taking place; we'll finally be at home.

Welcome home, my child, you are here at last.

A place prepared for you.

I have waited long for this Age to pass,

so I can be with you.

Welcome home.

Now in a mirror dimly, we'll see Him face to face.

No need of mortal bodies, but perfection in its place.

The time we spend while waiting is like a day to Him

Hearts that long for loved ones will finally meet again.

Welcome home, my child, you are here at last.

A place prepared for you.

I have waited long for this Age to pass,

so I can be with you.

Welcome home.

Welcome Home, Jim Fitzgerald!  And save a place for us!