Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Dear Crystal, Mike, Debra, and all,
How very sad I was to receive the news of Art's death yesterday. I am studying in the UK at this time and will be unable to be with you for the service tomorrow. I rejoice with you that he is safely home with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord, (2 Cor. 5:7).
I had the blessed privilege of praying with him, baptizing him, discipling him, and working with him in many settings. One memory that I will always cherish is of a Wednesday evening when the governor had requested that all public buildings meet without using electricity for lighting to conserve on energy. The long standing rule at the church was that we did not cancel services because the pastor lived across the parking lot. That night I ventured across the lot wondering if anyone would be there. I lit some candles and sat waiting. The door opened, and in walked Art. No one else showed up that evening, so the two of us met for Bible study and prayer. That was an example of his commitment. Farewell, brother!!
