Remembering Shelley Bailey

Yesterday morning I attended the memorial service of a formal colleague and friend. Every so often in life, you meet someone who truly has a beautiful soul. Shelley was one of those people. Her smile would light up a room. She consistently put the needs of others before her own. She was a loved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to many. During the service, I became hyper aware of a number of things. First, who will write my obituary? How long will it be…my immediate family is massive? Maybe I should work on that myself right now. I mentioned it to my sister, and she told me she would not accept it before age 70. What would the vibe be? Would I want my body present or grave burial? All these random thoughts entered my mind as we celebrated Shelley’s life. I drew my attention back to the service and briefly settled into sadness because she is no longer physically present. However, it was short lived, as a level of palpable peace and hope arose in the building because of her faith in Jesus. Though her absence was deeply felt, there is comfort in knowing that she is now with the Lord.

The Bible assures us that those who believe in Jesus will have eternal life. John 11:25-26 (NASB) says, “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?’” Her faith in Christ means she is now in His presence, free from pain and sorrow. That is the real victory…accepting Jesus into our hearts that we may gain eternal life.

For those who want to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior, here are simple steps:

1. Believe in Jesus – Trust that He is the Son of God and that He died for your sins. Romans 10:9 (NASB) says, “If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
2. Repent of Your Sins – Turn away from sin and seek to follow God’s ways. Acts 3:19 (NASB) says, “Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away.”
3. Pray and Invite Jesus into Your Heart – Talk to God, confess your faith in Him, and ask Him to lead your life.
4. Read the Bible and Pray Daily – Grow in your faith by spending time with God.
5. Find a Church Community – Surround yourself with believers who can encourage you.

Though our loved one is no longer here, her faith in Jesus assures us that we will see her again.