memorial address:
The Rev. Norman E. Riley
The Rev. Walter E. Orthwein
Readings: Psalm 8:1, 3,4; Matthew 6:19-21; Heaven and Hell 445; Arcana
Coelestia 7384, 1807:1-2
T
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm, 119:105)
his simple statement gives us a good summary of the Rev. Norman Edward
Riley’s approach to life. He loved the Word of the Lord. It shaped his
worldview and guided the uses he served as pastor, teacher, husband, father,
friend and inspiration to many.
Norman lived a long and very active life – a life of service to the Church
– and he had a wonderful personality; so there is much we could say about
him. Norman was of the old school, however, and it was his wish that his
resurrection service be focused on teachings from the Word, rather than a
tribute to himself. But there will be time for personal remembrances when we
gather in the choir hall after this service.
Actually, though, one of the main ways we learn about the goodness and
truth taught in the Word is by seeing them in the lives of others. This is why,
in the Sermon on the Mount, the Lord said: “Let your light so shine before
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