No Empty Chairs

©2014 Susan Noyes Anderson

In this life, some men stand so tall

that others rise up, too.

We look to their example, reaching

for their point of view.

We know, through them, the Savior's love

and see in them His grace.

Joe Barton was this kind of man.

The sun shone from his face.

He looked on us with gentle eyes,

clear windows of compassion.

His smile was bright and blessed with light

none but the Lord could fashion.

His countenance held warmth and wisdom;

laughter marked it well.

Joe was and is the best of us;
his story's ours to tell.

And we will tell it gladly, even

as we say good-bye, 

sustained by sacred knowledge that

he lives and loves on high.

And humbled as we understand

another needs him more.

Their sweet reunion heals our hearts,

reminds us what's in store.

For one day we will meet again

when earthly work is done,

and there will be no empty chairs.

The victory will be won.

For Joseph Henry Barton, in love and memory.

My brother-in-law Joe with his sweetheart, Mary... 

then

and

 more recently...

for time and all eternity.