Monday Musings - Bernie

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It had been nearly five years since I last saw my friend, Bernie. After I relocated to a distant city, we kept in touch with periodic phone calls. They eventually ended.

Bernie found it difficult to care for himself and his large home. He moved closer to a daughter and eventually moved into an assisted living situation. After a time, he began to deteriorate; that deterioration was rapid.

I received a phone call informing me that he was in comfort care; he was not likely to live much longer. The caller was correct. Bernie died the following morning, surrounded by his loving family.

I could not make it to the wake but was present at his funeral Mass. It was a blessing to be there.

As I approached the altar to receive Holy Communion, I paused momentarily, bent over and placed my head on his casket – my fond farewell.

When I returned to my pew, with my Lord still on my tongue, a few tears fell down my cheek as I was filled with gratitude for the faith-filled life that Bernie had lived and for our friendship. For more than a decade, he got up in the early morning hours one day each week to visit, comfort and adore His loving Lord.

Bernie, like all men and women created by God, was a sinner. I have no way of knowing with certainty if my friend is in heaven. I do know that he treasured his Catholic Faith and tried to live it well. As Father mentioned Bernie’s many quiet and often hidden contributions to his family and community, it sure appeared he led an exemplary life.

I know this: his family loved him and he them – that made him a wealthy man while on this earth, and God willing, in heaven as well.

Bernie, my friend, you helped me remember what true wealth looks like - love of God, love of family and love of neighbor.

I pray that when you stood before the Throne of Justice and the Prince of Peace, that you heard: “Well done my good and faithful servant.”

Rest in peace.