THIS is why we're talking about death...

During my years in North Carolina I had the great pleasure of knowing Joe Dyer.

Joe came into a vibrant faith later in life and was called into missions.
I was blessed to work with Joe in getting him called with the missions branch of the PCUSA to the Sudan.

Long story short- Joe's mission to the Sudan was cut short by a diagnosis of ALS. (But not before he could return home with a beautiful bride!)

Joe's body lost it's fight with ALS on Monday morning.
I spoke with his son Max today and this is what he said about his dad,

"Dad said to me recently that if he had to give up the relationship the he had developed with God since ALS in order to be able to function normally again, he wouldn't consider it."

Joe did not only live for the promise of heaven through life in Jesus Christ.
Joe lived fully in Jesus Christ.  What an inspiration!

It's because of a sickness like ALS, or other illnesses or tragedies, that I'm preaching through a series called, "So You're Dead...Now What?"
We will all face our mortality.
But we can face it with hope.
The hope that comes through faith in Jesus.
And more, that through this hope, we can experience the fullness of life in Jesus here and now!

While some us grieve the physical death of Joe, we do so in hope.
For Joe is unshackled from sickness, face-to-face with his redeemer, and awaits the resurrection of his body at Christ's return!