Blessed assurance

I was honoured to be asked by Bishop Christopher to represent him at the funeral of Folajimi Olubunmi-Adewole, which was held today at the family's church in Camberwell, Bestway Christian Centre.

Bishop Christopher was himself representing the Archbishop of Canterbury a service for the new archbishop in Jerusalem., and so could not be there in person.

Folajimi's service gave eloquent testimony to the kindliness, liveliness and likeability of a young man, who gave his life in an attempt to save the life of a stranger.

In a service full of Scripture,  Gospel and testimony we heard of Jimi's love of his family, his sporting prowess, and of the day he commited his life to Christ. I had the opportunity to lead in prayer and then, later, was very moved to be invited to give the final blessing at the graveside.

The service - both in church and at the graveside - was full of the hope of heaven. 

Standing at the head of the grave with the other pastors, having been reminded once more of Jimi's own personal commitment to Christ and Lord and Saviour, we sang the hymn 'Blessed assurance'  with its  wonderful refrain: This is my story,  this is my song; Praising my Saviour all the day long

It was a moment I shall never forget.