
Drew Daywalt is an ingenious author who has written books on the trials and tribulations of crayons. His canny presentation of the relationships between the colors and how they engage the world reflects our interactions with one another.
We’re all a crayon color, a shade that allows us to leave our mark on the world in a way that lets others know we’ve been here, each in our unique way.
We imprint the world with our presence, illustrating who we are where we live and the kind of singular impression we’ve left on those around us. Some are emphatic and intense, lives more noticeable. Some are subdued and muted, known by those closest to them; they haven’t made a big splash in the world, but their influence is powerful in the way they lived.
My friend Jacque would have been a lovely azure blue, a color of calm and brilliance, clearly seen, and deeply appreciated. She died recently, and I’ve been able to consider the impact she had on my life.
She lived with our chaotic family for a period when we moved to Orlando. I was pregnant with our sixth child, but the five we had were rambunctious and fun, and Jacque took it all in stride. She was a calming influence with all of us, a woman who was very present with those around her, who cared about how she interacted with others, who valued the needs of others and sought to meet them.
Jacque had beat cancer once, but it came back with a devastation that was relentless. Her death has impacted many; her loss is deeply felt and grieved by many.
Her memorial service was a picture of her azure blue impact on the lives of those she gently came in contact with. Her family and friends commented on her calm demeanor, her compassion for others, her ability to see the needs of others and do what she could to meet those needs–often without considering the consequences to herself. She leaves behind a husband who adored her, five kids who will deeply miss her love and support, and a multitude of friends who know we’ve all become better people by knowing this amazing woman.
I have confidence that I will see Jacque again one day because she and I both have a relationship with Jesus.
“Jesus told her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in Me will live, even after dying.’” Matthew 11:25
What Jacque knew and lived out loud was that she loved Jesus, and Jesus loved her. That He was her Enough.
One of her favorite songs was “Fires” by Jordan St. Cyr. It was her story.
“I’m changed by Your mercy, covered by Your peace, I’m living out the victory; doesn’t mean I won’t feel the heat. You’ve walked me through fires, pulled me from flames. If You’re in this with me, I won’t be afraid.”
Life is full of the deep reds of fire and pain, the black of smoke and loss. But Jesus is the Shepherd that walks us through the hard times to experience His joy in the moment. He alone is the substance of beauty and color, the Master Artist.
Jacque made her mark with elegance and grace. Indelibly.
What mark are you leaving?
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