Last Sunday I woke up to four missed calls and a text, all from my mom. Naturally, I wondered which of my relatives was in the emergency room. However, I was completely unprepared for what she said. Tammy called this morning. There was an accident. Elijah didn't make it.
At 12:30 am, our dear friends' oldest son passed from this life into the arms of our Lord. A recent high school graduate, Elijah was headed to boot camp in three weeks, scheduled to depart on his 18th birthday. He was a leader in the church youth group, an excellent percussionist, and a gifted athlete.
There are so many things to say.
My broken heart is aching. But this pales in comparison to the agony of my brothers...Elijah's five siblings...his parents...
This is not fair.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding."
The town's response to this event has been nothing short of miraculous. What an incredible blessing to count this my home.
God's presence is so much more visible than ever before. He has already worked wonders through this tragedy.
I wish I could describe the profound, grief-stricken, worshipful beauty of Elijah's memorial service, but I don't think it could be put into words. Elijah's life meant so much to so many, and his faithful commitment to Christ has reached the entire community and far beyond. Through his death and his parents' constant witness in the following days, hundreds - perhaps thousands - have heard the gospel.
Thanks be to God.
Elijah Todd Davis
September 2, 1995 - July 28, 2013
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