Papa

Today I spent my morning helping my dad and uncle pack up my grandpa's life sized nativity scene. While growing up, my brother and I were tasked with the important job of helping Papa set up the nativity scene outside of his house.  Papa loved Christmas and would have legendary Christmas displays inside and outside his house.  I remember being inside his house on any night before Christmas and I would see streams of cars driving by to look at his decorations, which included but was not limited to a giant star nailed to the top of the house with lights streaming down to the nativity, an amish buggy, and a historic sleigh. (You can read more about this on my brother's blog--just scroll to the "Merry Christmas" post.)

(Notice in the picture above I had the honored job of carrying baby Jesus!)

This year my parents had a the great idea to put up his life sized nativity set outside of his room at his assisted living facility. The day after Thanksgiving my family got together and surprised Papa by putting up his display.  It was the greatest gift anyone could have given him this Christmas season. Then every night for the past few weeks the residents at his facility would walk/stroll past his room to see his display (just like old times in his neighborhood).  

Here you can see Papa in a Santa hat looking out his window with my mom and cousin. 

Then literally just hours after Christmas was officially over he was gone. Unexpectedly. Surprisingly. Gone. It has been a sad few days since he passed away.  We packed up the nativity at his place for the last time.  Plans and arrangements have been made for Papa and his possessions.  But there is some sense of comfort and hope.  Papa experienced so much joy in gazing at his nativity--the symbol of Jesus and His love for the world.  Now Papa can truly gaze upon the Lord; he has seen Him face to face.  Papa really is in a much better place. 

When my Grammy Jo (Papa's wife) passed away a few years ago I reflected on this verse: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7

This same verse can be applied my grandfather. Up until the very end Papa kept his faith strong, remained humble, and cared deeply for others--especially his family.  He finished a great race.