June 15 - Re-entry and Loss

Jet-lag hit us hard, but not nearly as hard as opening our e-mails and seeing the news of more dear saints going home to Jesus.

We knew that both Fran Duven and Lois Hector were not well, and that for them, the hope of heaven was an eager anticipation, having lived many years. Yet, it is hard to not have been in town to say good bye to these dear saints in the Lord. I will never forget the night I took sixth grade boys to visit Fran, and her joy at telling them her life story, and their amazement at her recollection of the past. And Lois was continually counting the blessings of her life. She would often sing parts of the hymn "Count Your Many Blessings" during our visits - whether it was recalling God's faithfulness in their ministry or family, she was always so grateful for all that she had experienced in life.

Then we learned of tragedy in the Herda family, with the accident that took Dave's life. How our hearts go out to the Mars family and Andy and Jessica, and Nick and Leah. It seems like just yesterday we were celebrating weddings and graduations. Our hearts ache with Brenda in the sudden and tragic loss of her husband.

And then on Friday more tragedy. Mike Vander Meulen also died in a tragic accident while driving truck. It seems too much to bear, and again our hearts ache with Peggy and long for God's grace in this sudden sorrow.

There are many of our sisters and brothers in Japan who are reading this blog, and I invite us all to join in prayer for these families who have lost dear loved ones.

In the coming days, I hope to include some reflections on the global experience in Japan and invite you to check back.