Dear Harpeth Hills,

A preacher friend of mine passed away yesterday. He was in his early 90’s. John Simpson was a good man. Great sense of humor, kind, loyal, and always encouraging to me.

When time comes for the funeral service, no more than 10 will gather. There will be no crowd to hear a well-deserved eulogy. No big church meal after the service for the family. No procession to the graveside. The important rituals that accompany grief will be absent.

It is sad. I think it is important to acknowledge this. It is not a pretend sad. It is real.

It is just not sad for John.

And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who from now on die in the Lord.” “Yes,” says the spirit, “they will rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them.” –Revelation 14:13

I love you.

—Chris Smith