When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and
the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true:
"Death has been swallowed up in victory."
"Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?"
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:54-57
The Martin Luther community received some sad news today. Mrs. Roca, our long time cafeteria manager, died suddenly at her home last night. She is survived by her husband, Joe, her children Jim and Amy, four grandchildren, and many friends. Debi served in our cafeteria in various capacities for over twenty years and did so always with a passion for doing her preparations with excellence and a genuine love and concern for the students and teachers she served. Her tireless service to others was born out of how she knew she had been served by her Father in Heaven. Debi had a remarkable sense of humor and selfless love of others that came out in everything she did. She will be greatly missed.
The students and staff gathered this morning in the Worship Fine Arts Center for a time of prayer, mourning, and fellowship around the 1 Corinthians text offered above and shared in the singing of several hymns rich in the comforting Gospel Message of Christ. Our teachers, counseling staff, and several local pastors are being made available to students as they process and cope with this difficult circumstance. The power and comfort of His Word and the gift of prayer are truly a blessing for us to cherish and share. His joy being realized in the midst of our sadness is an eternal blessing.
We will keep you posted as to funeral service details as they emerge.
In this waiting time of Advent, may we all be comforted in the knowledge that Mrs. Roca's waiting here on earth is over. Debi's victory has been won! She is with her Savior! Praise be to God!
I fear no foe with Thee at hand to bless;
Ills have no weight and tears no bitterness.
Where is death's sting? Where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still if Thou abide with me!
Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes;
Shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies.
Heav'n's morning breaks, and earth's vain shadows flee;
In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.
Abide with Me (Lutheran Service Book #878)
Dr. Wayne E. Jensen
Principal