It is in the most ordinary times that a note, text, or message comes to us. It’s very humbling and we never take messages lightly. Every message is a blessing and greatly appreciated. As we process the message we ponder how we will use it. We love to tell these stories because these stories give others-when we share them insight into James’ life and a glimpse into how we have taken tragedy and allowed God to shape us and give us purpose and ministry.
I received this message last week. I read it to John through tears and as I looked at him he also was wiping tears. Sometimes it is hard to believe this is our story. It is impossible to imagine how we could do anything we have done without God leading and directing us. That really is the miracle of any of it! When we receive a message like this one from someone we have only talked to once and that was on a FaceTime call when his son received a scholarship it reminds us that what we have been called to do matters! And so we press on!
“Dear Friends,
While never spending time with you, never having conversations, and for that matter not even certain that we have ever formally met, I pause today to write and express love for the two of you from my wife and me. I apologize for the informality of a text. Today while attending a funeral I passed the temporary resting place of James. I immediately stopped in my tracks as I had never visited this special place. I was quickly reminded of the day when we will all be caught up together with our Savior. I stood alone and took the time to lift your names before the Throne of Grace. I am so glad that we can know He hears us and loves us. So today, may God comfort you and strengthen you. May He continue to use you in a powerful way and may the lives of others come to know salvation in Christ through your story. I do not know why God chose this journey for you but I am thankful that you have remained steadfast and faithful. Only Heaven will truly reveal the impact of your lives here on earth and may you be reminded in the most difficult of moments that He loves you and there are many others that love you and pray for you faithfully. Thank you for being a blessing in our lives and may you feel the presence of the Lord and His loving arms around you each day! Thank you for being you and being vulnerable so that others may hear of our Savior. Heaven grows sweeter each day and praise his name we are one day closer to eternity with Him and a reunion with family. May God richly bless you beyond your imagination. We love you!”
This truly took my breath away. Along with the text he sent a picture of James’ door. I’m thankful he took it and shared it with us. Today I will share a picture of James as he will always be remembered! Our prayer daily is for us is to honor God as we share how HE worked in James’ life first and now through the ministry HE has given to us to carry.