LuAnne McNabb 1958-2009

I'd like to share a letter from my friend brother Darwin Benjamin at the passing of our mutual friend and sister in the Lord, LuAnne McNabb. May it remind you to live every moment to the glory of the Lord!

"It is with great and exceeding joy and humility that I write to you in regards to my sister in the Lord, LuAnne McNabb. I deeply apologize that I could not physically be with you, but know I am with you in spirit! I've asked my good friend Pastor Ed Han to represent me and my family by reading this short letter.

First, my condolences to the family, but please don't despair, rather celebrate that LuAnne is with her Lord. What God has done, no one can reverse. Honor her life with change by growing closer to Jesus. Let your light shine in these dark times to influence someone else for God's glory!

The Scripture says, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8). Now I know we all have drama in our lives and weakness, but there is strength at the Cross, in the Word, and through Jesus! When I think of Sister LuAnne, one word comes to my mind "JOY!" That’s what she always portrayed to me, even in drama. Oh my!

We would get together and talk about what the Lord had done for us and in us. Then we would get to shouting and laughing and dancing, no matter where we were. And of course we both would cry! Man I loved that about her. She was one white lady who could fire me up for the Lord with her zeal. I could look into her face, for she was my biggest cheerleader in audience. Even if I stunk, she never let me know. She would say, “Brother I love your fire. I love hearing you preach and dance.” I hope she realizes she was preaching to me! Her laugh, her smile, her giggle and her voice when she sang was one who I feel was sincere, for she loved her Jesus. She knew what He did for her - she knew.

Unfortunately, we as people often judge people who are different from what we understand, not realizing that they are gifts from God to encourage and love others. For the gift God has given us is individuals like LuAnne, to build His kingdom. I thank God for my sister and what she personally did for me. She always expressed "Joy" to me, even when she didn't talk! I pray that you remember how she sparked your life, or at least tried to. And I pray that you will spread the joy of the Lord in remembrance of her life, and let’s finish what she was unable to complete! The Joy of the Lord is our strength! I for one will keep my joy and honor her life by influencing others! LuAnne, I’ll see you in heaven for eternity. I LOVE YOU MY SISTER! Rev."D"

P.S. Somebody please come to Jesus today, because even at her death, God is calling you to Life in Christ! Please don’t let this moment pass you by - LuAnne was prepared for death by receiving God's gift to the world, Jesus Christ who paid it all so you could have it all! Come!"