Sunday, December 8, 2013

Lives Lived Well and Now with Jesus

Friday night Richie and Lydia stopped by so that Lydia could practice singing "Treasure of Jesus" with Ted for an upcoming Christmas program.   It is such a beautiful song, and the lyrics are so fitting both for the program, and for the news we received that evening
(and last night as well). 
 
Soon after they finished practicing the song on Friday night,
we received a phone call from Janet, Richie's mom,
 that their beloved uncle,
a Wycliffe missionary for most of his life,
had gone home to be with Jesus.  
We were so sad to hear the news of the loss this will be to so many . . .
his dear wife, Helen;
his family;
and many, many friends all over the world. 
At the same time, as Richie re-told his amazing story,
we enjoyed reminiscing and rejoicing over his life . . .
a life lived surrendered to the Lord and for His glory.  
No doubt, as he entered into the presence of Jesus,
he heard "Well done, good and faithful servant!"
 
Among many amazing things that Don did in the Lord's service,
 was to be a part of the search team for
Jim Elliott, Nate Saint, Roger Youderian, Ed McCully, and Pete Fleming
in the jungles of Ecuador after their death in 1956 by the Auca Indians. 
Don and his team-mates are written about in Elisabeth Elliot's book
"Through Gates of Splendor."
He is also in a few of the photographs on pages 208-211,
wearing a Hawaiian shirt and his logging hard hat. :-)
 
In addition to his news,
we heard late last night that our very beloved and faithful friend, neighbor and "adopted" grandma,
suddenly went home to be with Jesus.
She also lived her life fully devoted to the Lord and to others.
These two dearly loved ones, Don Johnson and Marilyn Jerke, entered into eternity within about 24 hours of each other.
Words can't express how much we will miss them!  
 
What can I do
How can I live
To show my world
The treasure of Jesus
What will it take
What could I give
So they can know
The treasure He is
If I can sing
Let my songs be full of His Glory
If I can speak
Let my words be full of His Grace
If I should live or die
Let me be found pursuing this prize
The One that alone satisfies
The Treasure of Jesus
And if I can sing
Let my songs be full of His Glory
If I can speak
Let all my words be full of His Grace
And if I should live or die
Let me be found pursuing this prize
The One that alone satisfies
The Treasure of Jesus 



7 comments:

Gwen T said...

What a beautiful story and tribute to an amazing man. Don was a gracious, godly servant of Christ who quietly impacted everyone he knew - I'm thankful for the chance I had to know him, even though it was briefly.

Shiloh Strang said...

So sorry for you all! Rejoicing that they are with the Lord!!

Meemom said...

We cannot help but be sad when a loved one passes, but is comforting to know they are with our Lord. Love, Meemom

AZDonna said...

I'm so sorry for your loss and sadness, but thankful for the difference these two warriors made in the Kingdom. God bless you all.

Anonymous said...

Dear ones, We just read about these two very special people who are now basking in God's love in His presence. We know how dear Marilyn was to all of you and we feel blessed to have known her. Our prayers are with you all. Love Mom and Dad

Lydia said...

Thank you for writing such a sweet post about Gma Jerke and Uncle Don. I imagine they maybe got to meet each other in heaven and are sharing stories :)

The Bowes Family said...

Thank you so much dear friends and family for your kind notes. We are very blessed by, and grateful for all your love and encouragement.
With much love back to you,
Robyn, for the Bowes Family

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