Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I want to extend heart-felt thanks to all of you who expressed love and sympathy to me and my family after the physical death of my dad. Many, if not all, of you have experienced similar grief and I’m so glad we can comfort one another with the comfort we receive from God (2 Cor. 1:3-5).

One of the most life-impacting results of my dad’s death has been the bringing into my consciousness, in each moment of grief and loneliness, the truth that this life is so temporary, so short, so undependable, and so not worthy of our attachment and love.

I am reminded that Jesus was described as “a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief” (Is. 53:3). I think Jesus’ sorrow must have helped Him stay focused on His Father’s will, or perhaps His focus on His Father’s will caused Him to be a man of sorrows - I’m not sure. I do know that my sorrow is helping me live out the verse quoted above. I am finding it easy, in the midst of the wave of sadness, to put this life into the perspective of eternity.

I am reminded of the E’z of Discipleship: I Expected death and sorrow, I Embrace it as God ‘s will, I will Endure it, with God’s help, and I will Enjoy it as God sanctifies me in the process and equips me for better service.

And He has been a faithful and good shepherd every step of the way! He deserves our trust and love. Let’s give it to Him and boldly follow Him in to the days and experiences before us.

In His love,
Pastor Tim