06/12/2026
Individually and collectively, we are processing the sudden death of Barb Po***ck, a week ago. As odd and harsh as it may strike when we say it out loud, perhaps a death like hers is a blessing for all parties. From a Christian perspective, we rejoice (and may be a bit jealous) at the thought of a promised existence in the very real and immediate presence of our beloved Savior, to whom we have committed and entrusted our lives. From a caregiver's perspective, there is often relief that the burden of the afflicted and the weight of caregiving has ended.
None of that, however, changes the fact that there is still a profound sense of sorrow all 'round. We miss the presence of our friends and loved ones. We are somehow diminished by their departure. We mourn the loss, even as we are faced, once again, with a stark reminder of our own mortality.
It is imperative that we give ourselves permission, time, and space to grieve - both for Barb, for her family, for our community - so I hope you'll do that. "13 But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about those who have died, so that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have died." (1 Thessalonians 4:13–14)
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