Today would have been his 73rd birthday. This day comes now with a bitter-sweetness that is hard to shake, but the Lord has made this one especially sweet, so I want to tell you about it.
As pilgrims on this journey, we do not always have the joy of seeing the results of the seed-sowing for the Kingdom. Most of us will never know the difference we’ve made until we are with Him in Glory.
This weekend I had one of those serendipities from God. A dear friend has been visiting. I’ve watched God work in her life when Raouf planted the seeds of witness, to the point of her acceptance of Christ, her baptism, her discipleship, her ministry and even her doctorate. Though I know she continues to be an active witness for the Kingdom, and that thrills my soul, it was the little voices today that spoke the loudest.
I was working in my office, when I heard her at the kitchen table with her two daughters. A small voice was reading from the Bible, as her mom helped her with the hard words in the story of Esther. Two girls, who have lived a completely different life from their mother. They have both parents who love Jesus, serve him in life and work, go to church, active in their faith.
When we first met their mother, she had none of that — only a desire to fill the void in her heart.
Tears came to my eyes, as I realized this was the greatest gift for Raouf’s birthday — seeing those we loved and discipled discipling their children, giving them what they never had. This would be a new generation raised to hear the good news of Christ and grow within a house of hope.
That’s what it’s all about.
Happy Birthday, Hayati.
This is very touching. I woke up today remembering Raouf’s birthday and reflecting on a very dear and special person to my heart who tought me a lot and was a true living example of His master. Thank you Carol š
Thank you, Sherry.
Wow! Thank you for sharing. Raouf touched many lives
āBeautifulā has become too common a word to describe this reflection; it is the stuff of heaven and all eternity! Remembering my dear brother today and praying for you. I donāt think you could have shared a more fitting tribute or remembrance…thank you.