Heaven Gained a Hero

This morning as I got ready for work, there was a special celebration going on in my home church. Celebrating the life of this lady, Alma Witzenburg.

Here was a woman who prayed as I've never known before. A rare woman you read biographies about. Her family wrote the most beautifully accurate tribute for her. 

I've no doubt it was a packed house, for anyone who had the privilege of spending even five minutes with this prayer warrior, knew they were loved. Loved by her and loved by Him. She was special and she will remain special in all of our hearts.

She was a rare women. A woman many others looked up to. I know I did. Just a couple months ago I wrote about how she inspired me to always have a place devoted to reading and prayer. Growing up, I'd often be asked the question, "Who is your hero; someone you admire and want to be like?" Others would name movie stars, singers, etc. It always seemed odd to answer that question with someone I didn't know. I always named two people from my home church. Alma, was one of them. A fierce woman of God who was passionate about all things pertaining to Him and loved people unconditionally. She embodied grace and meekness while never lacking in passion and zeal for what mattered most. 

Family is a big word to me. It's more than blood relation. They're those closest to you who know you; have walked alongside you; seen the good, bad, and dreadful parts of you but love you through; they know your heart's deepest longings, joys, and aspirations; they also know your greatest wounds. Alma was family. 

Many from my home church remain family. It's a small town and was an even smaller church not so small anymore! I didn't fully understand my hurts and trials as a young girl, but the adults there knew. Alma knew. She, among others, encouraged me to get involved in any way I could. She'd pick me up, take me to events, ask me to volunteer, and would simply love me. I could name several families who did that throughout my teens. The Lord placed them in my life to protect me and guide me. I will forever be thankful.

Several years ago I found out Alma and others would stay after prayer meetings once I left so they could pray specifically for me. At that time I was on hefty narcotics and medicines of all kinds due to migraines. They saw a young girl who needed healing in more ways than just physical. It's because of their prayers I'm where I'm at today.

A couple years ago, when the above picture was taken, we met over coffee. Alma's mama's heart shined. While she knew the trials and hurts I've faced, she looked at me with tears in her eyes and challenged me to love those who are hardest for me to love. She spoke to me as a mama to a daughter telling me to love someone I simply did not care to love. Then she gave me a book, telling me how it had spurred her on in ministry. She implored me to read it and implement it. One did not say no to Alma. Frankly, who would want to??  

Alma kept in touch as I moved to different parts of the country then across the world. She messaged, commented on posts, and emailed. She prayed and I knew it. She loved well and taught others to do the same.

This wife, mom, grandma, sister, friend, and so much more was a young woman in many ways still. Now, she is a dancing bride with her Bridegroom! 

She is and will be missed profusely, especially by her immediately family. Please pray for them as they continue to celebrate her life and weep as they say goodbye for now.