I’m not afraid to die

For several weeks now, one of our believers, Hesus, hasn’t been able to attend church services on Sunday.  So, this past Sunday, after the morning service, Ginger and I took a short walk over to Hesus’ house.   A short walk it was but something Hesus can’t do anymore; he can’t even get out of bed.  Upon our arrival to his house, we went back into his bedroom.  There, as he lay on his bed, with tears in his eyes, he told us that he wasn’t afraid to die.  Then his wife opened the Agutaynen Bible and read to us some verses they had read just that morning to each other, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Always rejoice.  Pray to God in every hour, and whatever is happening give thanks.”  This is one thing to read when all is well.  But to read such words with an unwavering voice when your husband has just been diagnosed with stage four cancer is only by the peace and assurance that God gives.

Last week, I took them to a doctor’s appointment with the hope of getting a concrete diagnosis of Hesus’ sickness.  There, we were given the news that he likely has lung cancer and that it has probably already spread to his liver and bones.

Hesus’ children are coming home to see their father, maybe for the last time.  Some are traveling over mountain ranges, while others are flying over the Sulu Sea.  Maybe soon, our friend Hesus will be traveling to be with his Savior Jesus Christ.  There in heaven, he will have no more pain and no more tears.  That is the hope he clings to at this time.  Honestly, I wish there were no more tears for us who will live on without his smile and joy.  Please pray with us for Hesus and for his family, especially those who still don’t know Jesus Christ as their Savior.