I remember early mornings during my High School years my Dad would be sitting at his desk reading his Bible. Underlining sections of scripture until you could no longer read the text through the pen marks and highlights. There's notes in the margin of names of people he was praying for and the dates he prayed. Notes from when he lead the Bible study for Sunday School, or ministered in prison.
Sitting at that desk or others over the years he has prayed for thousands of people. Systematically he has a brief case full of prayer requests that he reads through and mentions to God on a daily basis. You should see the stack from the prisoners, that has only grown as he's continued to minister. Each one is significant to him, he makes copies of these letters and hands them out to everyone that he thinks is willing to pray. He prays in earnest.
There was a season when he wanted to model his life after Martin Luther, praying and reading for at least 3 hours/day. He has lead a life of devotion. Although mostly a farmer or factory worker his simple life has impacted so many. He spent his energy on acts of service too many to name, served as an Elder at church, and was willing to challenge and encourage anyone that crossed his path.
I Peter 3:15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
This was a verse that my Dad lived by and challenged others with. For me this model meant that I went into missions. I learned from a young age that I had a hope that was good enough to share. So I did. I remember memorizing the way to lead someone into salvation prayer in several languages. From Dad's margins on my first trip in 1989 God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn. Psalm 37:5. I know my Dad prays for me everyday. My name is mentioned from his lips to my Father God, it's significant.
Thankfully no spiritual giant is without fault! I have learned and grown through the things I've had to forgive him for as well. My Dad laid the ground work in my life to turn to God, this is the foundation that the rest of my life has grown from.
He's been an eternal optimist, sometimes frustratingly so! His quote "keep the Son/Sun Shining" has been one of my favorites. He has lived with eternity in his heart, heaven as his home goal. It would be difficult for anyone in a bad mood to remain that way long after spending time with Dad.
Norbert (his real name) has been in a real fight with cancer that he is no longer winning. Pray with me now that as he walks and breathes his last on this side of eternity that he will not be faced with pain or despair, but joy and peace in having lived a life pursuing life in God.
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