The Fragrance of Christ
“Mom! Mom!” Ben hollered as he rushed through the front door. “I met a new family from New Jersey. They home-school and have 11 children. The mom is cool, she even fed us pizza!”
“That’s awesome! What’s her name?”
“Toni Rypkema.”
Since we both homeschool and have a big family, I hoped to meet this lady one day.
In the Fall of 2006, I attended a Women’s Retreat. During a break, I walked outside for some fresh air and heard guitar music coupled with energetic singing. I recognized the person responsible for the music as the same curly-headed lady who passionately led worship earlier in our session. My heart soared as her song was like a sweet aroma rising heavenward.
I overheard someone mention the name of the woman playing guitar:Toni Rypkema. How could I forget a name like that? Without hesitation, I stepped across the courtyard and introduced myself. We laughed and were excited to finally meet. Little did I know, our brief encounter would be the first of many as she would become a dear friend.
Throughout the busy years, Toni and I kept in touch through encouraging phone calls and exchanging prayer requests. She shared her passion for Good News Clubs, a weekly after-school program with Bible lessons, where she gets the opportunity to teach the gospel to children who otherwise may never hear. A blazing fire burned in her heart for these little ones. Some would’ve thought Toni had landed a not-so illustrious job. But to Toni, it was the most important job in the world.
In 2015, my father moved into a nursing home. Toni eagerly asked if she could visit him with me. She played his favorite songs as he softly sang along. Watching her play for an audience of one as if it were a hundred was pure joy.
One afternoon, after an exhausting day, I noticed I had a voicemail from Toni.
“Hi, Angela, I just wanted you to know I’ve returned from visiting your dad. We sang songs and prayed. We had a glorious time together. I was so blessed! Thank you for sharing your dad.”
I teared up, because earlier that day, I felt torn trying to juggle time between family and a visit with my father. Toni’s timely voice message eased the weight. How refreshing to hear her recount my dad’s smile, their prayers together, and the sweet good-byes.
In 2010, Toni was diagnosed with breast cancer. During treatments, Toni encouraged other patients with songs of worship. Cancer could not quench her love for God and others.
When Toni’s cancer went into remission in 2011, she continued to praise God as she recorded children’s worship CDs with lively songs of herself and children singing. Everyone loved her songs.
Toni and I were a part of a writer’s group called Word Weavers International. One Monday evening, she walked into our meeting wearing a back brace. My heart broke to see her wincing from the stabbing back pain, yet she stayed for the entire meeting. Later, Toni learned her cancer had returned.
In early 2023, I needed a worship leader for the Spring Women’s Retreat I was planning. The Lord laid Toni on my heart, but I thought, “I can’t ask her to play guitar in her physical state. What will her family think of such a request?”
By faith, I called Toni. She had just returned home from treatment, and she sounded tired. “Let’s just pray, Angela. Let’s see what God wants.” Shortly thereafter, she called back.
“I’m going to attend, by faith, and I know this is what I’m supposed to do. Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”
Toni showed up at the retreat with enthusiasm, joy, and the biggest smile. She worshipped with all her might, stunning us with her strength and joy. The “Goodness of God” never sounded better.
In the beginning of 2024, Toni experienced renewed strength and vigor. I was overjoyed to see the “old Toni” resurfacing. But only a short time later, Toni’s health was in decline once again. Some friends and I visited her. In a very frail, weak state, she spoke, “Let’s sit in the backyard and just see God’s beauty.” We talked about God’s faithfulness, His strength, and her desire to go home. I knew she was tired, yet I desired to pray one more prayer of healing for my friend.
On March 27th, 2024, Toni went home to be with Jesus. Walking streets of gold with guitar in hand, she’s now singing her glorious melodies face-to-face with Jesus. Saying good-bye to my dear friend was difficult yet encouraging. Her life continuously demonstrated an unshakeable love for God and others. She will always serve as a great example and reminder that every day we can be the fragrance of Christ wherever we are.
For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.
2 Corinthians 2:15 NKJV