Judith Berlyn (Funeral 16/02/2021)

Introduction

I am priviledged to have this opportunity to celebrate the life of Judith Berlyn. No doubt we are all here to remember her beautiful life that she has shared with all of us; a wife, a mother, a sister, and a special friend. Judith’s life has had a special impact in all of us.

Ryde SDA Church

Last year I began my employment as a minister of the gospel at Ryde Seventh-day Adventist church; a church that Judith as a member of. Sandra, our church clerk, gave me a list of names of members from the church; I remember Sandra mentioning Judith and her condition of health at the time. It was not long after that COVID hit Sydney and restictions were in place and as a result I turned to calling members from the list to check on their welfare during COVID restrictions and to say hello as their new minister.

First contact

It was in April 2020 that I contacted Judith and we would talk for minutes on end, she talked about her life and her family that she cherished and loved the most. She would talk about her children that were in England; Amanda and Lisa, and about her husband Michael. She would share that her life was blessed with such wonderful gifts. We would also talk about her day and her trips to the doctors and she would share to me her burden and together we would pray.

In all of my conversations with her I saw her faith, even though I have never met Judith in person, I saw her faith in Jesus; I saw her strength in the Lord and I knew that she trusted in God that whatever happens she can find peace and comfort in the arms of her Saviour.

Testimonies from others

I was hearing of stories about Judith and the memories she made with them. How she would go on a trip with Neville and Nancy Chick to Cooranbong to purchase things from the community markets up there and support the community.

Verses that encouraged her

An auntie of Amanda and Lisa, one of Judith’s best friends since 1968, shared some verses that helped Judith endure the trials and tribulations on this earth.

In Isaiah 40:31, we find a beautiful message of hope for those that wait on the Lord. The promise that Judith believed that one day her strength will be renewed and that she will no longer struggle with the corruption of flesh but will one day rise at the ressurection and meet with her Redeemer.

Another verse that Judith cherished is in Isaiah 51:11 where she looked forward to that day she will enter into the heavenly throne with everlasting joy.

Judith was at peace because in her faith in Jesus she found a wonderful and loving Saviour, and that is the Judith that impressed upon my heart in my communion with her.

Conclusion

To all that are here now, although our dear friend is resting and awaiting for that momentous and awesome day of the Lord. May the times that you have spent with Judth be cherished forever. May we meet Judith at the ressurection of life where “...God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:4).

This is her hope and her prayer for all those she loves.