Celebrating Celeste...

Tonight, DW and I have the opportunity to celebrate the life of our friend, Celeste, and give our support for her husband, Ryan.  On Christmas Day, as they were caravan-ing with family to their annual Christmas getaway, their car was struck by a drunk driver and Celeste was killed.  Twenty seven years of life is too short for anyone but Celeste was one of those rare people who had the power to make you feel like you'd instantly known her for an entire lifetime.  I don't make this statement freely: I admired her. 

 

I know women are often referred to as a P31 woman or a Proverbs 31 woman if they are known for having character and godliness.  But when I think of Celeste, I think of a 1 Peter 3:3 woman.  Although she was physically beautiful, no doubt...that verse talks about how a woman's beauty shouldn't be based on her outward adornment - what clothes she puts on or what jewelry she wears, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.

 

That, to me, describes Celeste...unfading beauty.  Eyes that would light up when she talked about serving others.  Eyes that would sparkle when she talked about her love for the Lord and her desire to share His love with others.  A laugh that was infectious and instantly made you feel at ease.  She wasn't petty or gossipy and when you were with her, you felt like what she was saying mattered.  She made you feel like you mattered. 

 

At the same time we moved to Birmingham, Celeste and Ryan moved up to North Atlanta for his job with Northpointe Ministries and so Celeste could be closer to her family.  But you know those friendships that pick up right where they left off, zero awkwardness.  That was what these two meant to us.  We watched each other's dogs, we enjoyed hanging out with fellow foodies, and both couples shared a deeply rooted Faith in the One who numbers our days.  She was one of my first calls/texts when I found out we were asked to be LC's parents.   

 

I don't know why God chose to allow Celestes number to be so small.  I won't pretend to understand Him but I know that she has made heaven a more beautiful place. 

 

I miss you, Cel.  Your life was a bright, bright Light.  I can't wait to see you again...