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In Memory of Elijah Christian O'Dell
Rev. John Reyes • 1/11/2008
 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going." John 14:1-4 Jesus brings forth an encouraging word to those who are called by His name not to allow fear, dread, or distress to overwhelm one’s heart in times of great trial or sorrow. This week, we lost one of the greatest blessings this world will ever know, little Elijah Christian O’Dell. Just 20 weeks old, this little boy, whose middle name means “follower of Christ” was used of the Lord to bring forth great joy and blessings to the world around him. In his short time with us, he accomplished just what God had intended for him to do! Someone once wrote that in the most beautiful of gardens, those tended by the most skillful of gardeners, there is an occasional rose that buds, but never opens. In all respects that rose is like all other roses in the garden, but something keeps it from blooming and it fades away without reaching full maturity. What happens in earthly gardens happens once in a while in the garden of God’s people. A child is conceived and God’s people rejoice. A beautiful little baby is created in the image and likeness of Christ, but somehow doesn’t come to his rightful unfolding. Little Elijah Christian is like the bud that never fully opens, but is gathered into God’s heavenly garden where all imperfections are made right; all mysteries are explained and all sorrows are turned to joy. We trust that the Lord is taking good care of little Elijah Christian right now. We know, by faith, that at this very moment, he is joining with the angels singing:
One day, Mike and Kristene O’Dell, along with Elijah Christian, and those of us who are followers of Christ will worship God together, side by side, in an eternal covenant community, never again separated by death. For we know our Redeemer lives and one day we, along with all those who have gone before us, will see Him in all of His Glory! Mike and Kristene, you and your entire family are in our prayers. We love you.
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