Reflections of the Heart

Year 9- Day 13: Today, I am grateful for reflections of the heart. 

I was watching the celebration of life service for my friend, Rev. Javier Tamez. Listening to his family and friends share stories of his life, this scripture fell into place:

"As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart." -Proverbs 27:19

 Javier's life reflected his heart... has heart beat for his Lord, for his wife and family, for his friends and for the church. His brother, Dan, referred to him as a servant leader. He demonstrated the greatest love and care for anyone and everyone. 

The service was almost two hours long, but it felt like a blink. Story after story told of Jav's heart that reflected the One who saved his soul and gave him constant peace, laughter and joy. 

One of my favorite posts about Javier was from a friend of his beautiful wife, Milissa. She told how Milissa was always buying Javier clothing. Why? Because he would give you the shirt off of his back. Literally. It made me smile, because I know that was his heart. He loved God and he loved others. He fulfilled the great commission... and his earthly mission. His mission came to an end far too soon for those left behind. 

"You knew he had been her for the light he left behind."

Soon, we will celebrate my aunt's life. She, too, loved the Lord with her whole heart. As friends were offering condolences to my cousins and uncle on Facebook, one spoke about the first time they visited "Aunt (Bonnie)Mama's" church. They told how she saw the new people and welcomed them with her amazing warmth. If you know my Mama Ina Mae, Aunt Bonnie was like her in so many ways. Bess women hug and they offer help. It is how they roll

"Aunt (Bonnie) Mama" was the queen of "trash to treasure" before it was cool. Countless times, I remember her opening bags and pulling out craft projects or finished items she would give us as gifts. Like Jesus, she didn't see trash or broken things... she saw potential. She poured love into her projects and shared all that she had with others. She was quick to say "yes" and lend a hand. 

She adored little ones and little ones loved her back. She worked in early childhood programs and won the hearts of so many wee ones. She lived out the words of Jesus. 

But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” -Matthew 19:14

"Aunt (Bonnie)Mama's" loss leaves a hole in our hearts and an empty seat at the family table. On the other side, my sister, April, is doing a happy dance. She's reunited with Javier and Aunt Bonnie all in the same week.  She loved them both. Heaven's gain; our deep sorrow. 

They are in the presence of the King who loved us enough to become one of us. The one who died and rose again to make a way for us. They know the full joy of being in Jesus's presence.  Aunt Bonnie and Javier taught us all to love big and laugh often. They showed us Jesus in the reflections of their hearts. They were God talkers and hope bringers. 

"People of God offer hope." -Javier Tamez, November 2021

We do not grieve as those who have no hope. 

Today, I am grateful for reflections of the heart.