I knew the movie would be a sad story, but I pride
myself in being a tough guy who rarely sheds tears. As I watched the story
chronicling the final two years of country singer Joey Feek’s life, I wanted to
cry.
My wife, Stephanie, could not hold back the tears as
we watched the film, which was created, written and directed by Rory Feek as a
tribute to his wife, who died in March after a courageous battle against
cancer.
The husband-wife team had become extremely popular
with their mix of classic and modern country along with a down-to-earth persona
showcased on their successful cable TV show.
At the height of their success, they decided to take a
year off from traveling while Joey had the couple’s first child. They would
document it on film.
Little did they know what was ahead.
The baby girl was born with Down’s Syndrome. The
family quickly accepted that the child, named “Indiana” after Joey’s home
state, was the one God wanted them to have.
At her 12-week checkup after giving birth, the doctors
found that Joey had an abnormality which turned out to be cervical cancer.
After surgery and aggressive treatment, doctors declared Joey to be cancer-free
only to have the dreaded disease return in 2015. Despite more surgeries and
treatment, the cancer could not be contained.
Joey and Rory went to live life to the fullest in the
time she had left.
Watching Joey’s physical decline on film could only
make one wonder how he would respond if placed in that situation.
The story that began with Joey giving a life took the
most dramatic turn possible and continues today, even after her death. That is
what a true witness is.
It’s more than singing a song or wearing a big smile.
It’s knowing one’s eternity has been sealed by Jesus Christ.
I accidentally became a fan of Joey and Rory several
years back. I’d been watching The Marty Stuart Show on RFD-TV and somehow had
been distracted toward the end of the show and left the room. When I returned
to the couch, Joey and Rory had come on. I was immediately hooked on their
music and their unwavering devotion to Jesus Christ.
I told my wife to check them out and she was quickly a
bigger fan than me. The just seemed like genuine people, thankful for what they
had accomplished and giving God the glory for everything.
We regret we
had a scheduling conflict the last time Joey and Rory performed at Renfro
Valley, our favorite concert venue. Very soon after that show last September,
the couple stopped touring.
Their witness, however will remain strong through
their music.
The film, which is being shown on a limited basis, can
only enhance that outreach.
As the crowd slowly filed out of the theater, the
sounds were few. A few sniffles here. Some whispers there.
I wonder how many were thinking the same as me: Is my
faith so strong that it will inspire others. Through a time of pain and death,
would I, like Joey, be able to sing? Would I be able to smile and encourage
others?
Her voice was weakened, but still distinct.
When peace like a river attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well with my soul
Thank you Joey for your powerful witness.
Thank you Rory, for a wonderful celebration of her life.
And for making me examine my own life.
