Abuelo Rigo

Greetings,

Yesterday my husband's grandfather, Abuelo Rigo, passed away; he was 96-years-old. It was sudden; it was sacred.  He stopped eating Tuesday after having a robust appetite all day Monday and every day before then.  Wednesday morning he woke up, and his breathing was slowing down.  One of his grandchildren, David, read to him the 23rd Psalm, and 10 minutes later he exhaled for the last time and saw our Lord. He had been bedridden for seven years, and my mother-in-law devoted herself to his care at her home in a dedicated room set up just for him.  What love and sacrifice.  He went to glory with the prettiest, healthiest skin you have ever seen and smelling like cologne!

I will forever remember him for his great love of dogs.  He had three little yappy Chihuahuas that loved him so much.  He always gave them whole wheat bread and butter for breakfast, and they were his constant companions, laying in bed with him for hours.  I learned yesterday for the first time that he was a groundskeeper at the Doral Golf Resort back in the 70s and immediately wished I would have asked more questions when I had the chance.

But what I do know is that he loved his wife very much  -  they were married for 74 years  -  and that because of his commitment to family, three daughters produced nine grandchildren who brought 20 great-grandchildren into this world. One grandson is a pastor, two granddaughters married pastors, a few great grandkids are musicians in church, others serve in different ministries like baby care and small groups, and everyone of us knows Jesus. What a beautiful legacy!     

In memory of him today we shall pray the very words that accompanied him on his journey home.

Psalm 23

Dear Lord, You are my shepherd; I have all that I need.  You let me rest in green meadows; You lead me beside peaceful streams.  You renew my strength and guide me along right paths. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I am not afraid, for You are close beside me. You protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. My cup overflows with blessings.  Surely Your goodness and unfailing love pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever. Amen.