Jennifer and I were “birthday twins,” born on the same day, less than three hours apart. I still treasure the memory of a joint birthday party that our college friends threw for the two of us in 2006. Even then, in her early twenties, she struck me as unusually wise, stable, and faithful.
Over the years, when I traveled back to northern Virginia, Jennifer and I would meet up for a long walk or a bowl of ice cream and conversation. We talked about her work with the literature summer camp at PHC, or the challenges and struggles each of us were facing. Her thoughtfulness and joy were always evident, but above all, her steadfast commitment to the Lord Jesus. She was His servant, first and foremost.
I grieve at her untimely death, and I am praying for her family, fiancé, and others left behind. But I cannot be sad for her. Surely for Jennifer “the grave and gate of death” has opened onto a realm of joy with the One she loved and served so faithfully.
Into Your hands, O Lord, we commend your servant Jennifer, as to a loving and faithful Savior. May light perpetual shine upon her, and may she rise again in glory on the last great day.