Remembering Sis Jenima Sharma - A tribute
This is our tribute to her.
It was in 2008, when I first met Sis Jenima, the wife of our Bishop Samuel Sharma. It was during our first trip to NE India, Jaigaon in particular. We were there to conduct a pastors' conference at the bidding of Bishop Samuel who had attended the Haggai Leaders' Experience in Singapore a few months earlier. This was the beginning.
She was demure, quiet, hardly spoke a word in English. But she was extremely hospitable and genuinely kind. At that time they lived in a very simple house, with hardly any furnishing, all because of the call of God upon her life to serve the Master.
But one thing was certain. She loved the Lord, her husband and her two young children. She always wanted them to serve the Lord all their lives.
She was a remarkable woman whose life reflected the love and grace of God in every aspect. Her unwavering passion was the Great Commission, dedicating her life to spreading the message of Christ’s love, making disciples, and inspiring others to join in fulfilling God’s call to reach the nations.
Over the years, Jeya and I would travel to Jaigaon almost every year for mission work and we got to know her better. We became family.
Jenima was a loving and kind-hearted soul whose life touched countless others. Her home radiated warmth and hospitality, a true sanctuary where everyone who entered felt genuinely welcomed and cared for. During our mission trips, she exemplified grace and tireless service, always engaged in preparing sumptuous meals and attending to every detail to ensure our comfort. Her energy was boundless—one moment, she would be serving at the tables; the next, she would be leading us in heartfelt worship. Shortly after, she could be found diligently overseeing the Bible School students. Her ability to seamlessly balance multiple roles with such excellence was a remarkable testament to her dedication and versatility.
Her thoughtful nature extended beyond her home; she would accompany Jeya and me to the shops, tirelessly helping us find the best bargains for our purchases. Her selflessness and dedication were a testament to her beautiful heart and unwavering love for others. She always insisted that we have our meals at their house. Even though she was weak, she would still be cooking and serving us.
Her love for the Lord and her family was unwavering, and she instilled in her children the enduring values of faith, integrity, and kindness.
Her faith in the Lord was exceptional. Even in the most difficult circumstances her eyes were always on the Lord. Because of her faith and trust in the Lord, the Lord has blessed the ministry, her family and exalted her amongst her peers.
A generous giver, she was always ready to help the needy and made great sacrifices to serve others. Her wisdom and prudence made her a trusted counsellor to many, offering guidance and encouragement when it was needed most.
Many do not know that she was a linguist. The spoke at least 7 other languages which included, Begali, Assamese, Santali, Bodo, Nagamese, Nepali, Hindi and a bit of English.
Her last few years were not easy. She suffered in silence because of the disease. Even though she was in deep pain, she will still get up and make sure everyone one of us in the mission team is well taken care of. She always goes the extra mile to make sure we are well.
She is a true example of what Jesus said in Matthew 5:41-42 - If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
Even during her last days, she was praying and worshipping the Lord on her bed, in the midst of pain and suffering.
Loved by so many, Jenima left an indelible mark on all who knew her. The thousands who attended her funeral are a testament to the impact of her life—a life lived in devotion to God and others.
Her legacy will continue to shine through the lives she touched, and her memory will be cherished by her beloved husband, Bishop Samuel, her family, and the countless friends who mourn her loss.
“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” – Matthew 25:23
Though we grieve her absence, we rejoice in the knowledge that she is now in the presence of her Savior, where her worship continues eternally.
We miss her dearly but not for long. She just changed her address. Can't wait to see her again.
Rama & Jeya
Thank you so much sir. It is heart touching article.
ReplyDeleteThanking you once again sir