Precious Memories

Precious Memories
Psalm 121

"I lift up my eyes to the hills—  from where will my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth." — Psalm 121:1-2 (NRSV)

Today would have been my grandfather Rev. Robert D. Boykin’s 98th birthday—his first celebrated in Heaven. As I reflect on his life, tears well up in my eyes, not just from sorrow but from deep gratitude for the gift of his presence in my life. We affectionately called him “Shug”—a name that captured his gentle spirit and the sweetness of his love.

Shug was a man of deep faith, enduring strength, and boundless compassion. He was married to my grandmother for 72 years, a true testament to covenant love. Even in her final season of illness, he cared for her with unwavering tenderness. His love was not loud, but it was lasting. It was love that served, that listened, that stayed.

One of my most vivid memories is from 28 years ago, when I stood to preach my very first sermon. Shug beamed with pride, his face radiant with joy as he introduced me to the congregation. He poured into me—giving me books to prepare for ministry, cheering me on, and reminding me of the sacred charge in the words from my ordination: “Take Thou Authority.” That phrase echoes in my heart to this day, carrying with it the weight of legacy and the power of encouragement.

Psalm 121 reminds us that our help comes from the One who made heaven and earth. On days when grief feels overwhelming and the absence of those we love seems too deep to bear, we lift our eyes. We remember that the same God who gave us the blessing of their lives now gives us comfort in their physical absence.

Today, I invite you to reflect on the people God has used to bless your life—those who have loved you, guided you, and left you with memories too beautiful to forget. Write their names. Speak their stories. Let your heart feel both the pain of their loss and the joy of their impact.

Reflection: Who has God used to bless your life? What precious memories do you hold dear? How can you honor them today?

As I remember Shug, I am forever grateful for his loving compassion and care. I encourage you: cherish your loved ones while they are with you. Care for them well. And when they are called to their eternal rest, remember them with love and thanksgiving.

Prayer: Loving God, You are our Keeper, our Help, and our Comforter. In moments of grief, we turn to You with aching hearts and tearful eyes. Thank You for the precious gift of those who have walked with us and poured love into our lives. Thank You for memories that warm our souls even as we mourn.
Strengthen those who grieve today. Wrap them in Your everlasting arms. Remind them that You are near to the brokenhearted and that joy will come again. Help us to love deeply, to serve faithfully, and to remember with gratitude. May our lives honor the legacy of those who came before us. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

May your heart be lifted today, and may the memories of those you love continue to bless and guide your journey.

—With love and remembrance,
Pastor DeLishia A. Davis