Written April 3, 2016
I had the privilege of sitting between my two sons today (as we took care of the video and sound) as we watched our Arabic Baptist Church family celebrate 5 years of ministry in Murfreesboro. It was a bittersweet day, as they heard beautiful words shared about the role of their dad in the life of so many. Tears were shed, but not in despair…just the simple grief of missing one who meant so much. I worried over the planning of this day, as I wanted it to be a day to most importantly glorify God. I think we succeeded, so I’m sure Raouf would be proud, though a little miffed that I had such a huge picture of him framed to hang in the church. 🙂 He was never one to go for “memorials” for the dead, but was always one who focused on the living. Today, however, we saw the living at work, sharing their memories, love and vision for the future. He was a part of that. So, after a beautiful morning on a beautiful sunshiny day, I am going to put my feet up and rest, thanking God for having had the privilege to walk by the side of such a man and the continued privilege to journey with such an amazing group of followers of Christ.
Grace and Peace