Passing of the Patriarchs

 My son used this phrase in 2019. But it echoes in my mind tonight. The older I get, of course, the more people I know die. It is the way of life. King David understood this when he said, "I go the way of my fathers." I get it.

This last year four different men of God who were influences on my life passed away. 

First there was Bro. Ron. I hadn't seen him in years. He was the one who first taught Jim and I about spiritual warfare. His teaching helped set Jim and I free from a lot of bondage and give us good wisdom to raise our kids free from so many things that hindered us. I have fond memories of Bro. Ron portraying Jesus for my VBS class and his laughter was contagious. And such a smile. 

In August it was Dad Scott. There is not enough room to write what he all meant to me. He had been at the brink of death so many times. But I couldn't bear to go see him or talk to him on that final night. We shared such a deep love for his son Jim as well as for our Savior Jesus Christ. He was one of my main go-to guys about things of God next to my preacher. He prayed for his son's future wife before we even knew each other. Through his encouragement and prayer, I went to church and got saved. He was at our wedding. And he walked me down the isle to Jim's casket on the night of the viewing. He was with me when we received the initial police report and his prayers held me up those first days, weeks, and months. He told my sons about their dad and prayed for them also. He was one of the most longsuffering men I know and humble to boot. 

Then there was my brother-in-Christ Mahlon. His smile reminded me of my grandpa. He had such a spirit of joy and love. It just oozed out of him. He had this amazing way to connect with young people. My kids loved him. He had a coach's heart. He gave them gloves and a bat. He taught them about ball and life. He was another cheerleader to me. Always complimenting me as a mom. And joking around. But we also talked often about Heaven. He longed to hug his dad who had passed away when he was 12. 

Most recently I learned Bro. Anger had passed away. We hadn't seen him in years. But he too reminded me of my grandpa. He was tough and faith-filled man. Bold as a lion and courageous. Traveling the world, preaching to people, encouraging missions all while he was over the age of 70. He could be blunt and challenging. He challenged me to be tough on my boys and raise them to be men. "5 star soldiers." To do the uncomfortable. To eat strange foods. To view missions with fresh eyes. He was fearless in the face of the enemy. 

This four men have influence my life for Christ in many ways. They have entered into their eternal rest and will be rewarded for their faithfulness to Christ. Their presence is missed in this darkened world. And I remember the wise words of a fellow griever: "Be what you miss most about the one you love."