Thursday, August 6, 2009

Until I see you again

I've been meaning to update my blog for a very long time now but I just haven't known what to say.
Yesterday evening, Chris Champion passed away. Friends and family had been gathering around him for days, preparing their hearts and saying their goodbyes, but I don't believe anyone can fully prepare themselves for the death of a loved one. Last night was filled with tears, praise, and worship. It was amazing to me that even through all the sadness, we could still give God thanks for so many things. That's really a te4stimony to Chris. Just like his father, he wanted to give all the Glory, through his life and even death, if God called him for it. In his 20 years here, he has affected so many people. His wisdom and faith far surpassed his age. I'm so proud to say that Chris was my best friend, more like a brother than anything. I am so happy that I was able to spend the last three months helping him to get better, and even when he didn't, I'm glad I just got to be there for him, making him as comfortable as possible. Although my heart is aching terribly, I get comfort in knowing Chris is with his Heavenly Father and his dad, John. I especially get comfort in knowing Chris now has a glorified body. He can run, and jump, and dance, without pain or a limp. He can sing and praise without worrying about what the next scan is going to show, or how the next surgery is going to go. He was so brave, so gracious, and so faithful. I learned so much from my friend, lessons that I will always hold dear to my heart and never forgot.
I spent last night at the Champions, just like always. It was difficult to say the least. I longed to hear Chris breathe, I even longed to hear that stupid oxygen machine. I just wanted something to let me know that this was all just a dream, or a really cruel trick. But the silence of morning showed that Chris is indeed gone from this world. I'll admit I still am in shock, I'm not sure if it has really sunken in completely, and I fear for when it does. However, I will keep my eyes fixed on the Lord, just as Chris would want me to.
Goodbye Chris. I love you buddy and I can't wait to see you again. Please pray for us.

2 comments:

The Champion Clan said...

Brooke, thank you so much. That was beautiful to read. I can honestly say that without your help I could not have cared for Chris at home. You made it possible to make sure Chris was where he wanted to be - at home with those he loved. I love you so much... truly like another daughter. Chris asked me to keep an eye on you... I promised I would and I will. :-). thanks for all you did over the last months. Love Dawn

Unknown said...

Dear Champion family,
This is Dennis Hilken, Sr. pastor of St. John's Lutheran around the corner from you. We have many in common. Your son's blog was read at our Men's group this morning. I am teaching of 1 Timothy 4:12 this weekend "don't let anyone look down on you because of your youth ... " I would like to use his blog as part of my sermon. I wanted you to know that God, through Chris'life, continues to touch young and old. Praise God for him and your willingness to be used. And my prayer is that God's Holy Spirit power FLOOD you with His grace in your unimaginable loss. We celebrate Chris' promotion and mourn with you as you wait patiently to see him and Dad again.