Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Garland, Dad is in heaven now

I got a text message from my friend Jose on Sunday night that said, "Garland, Dad is in heaven now".
Jose's dad has been battling cancer for a long time. We knew the time was drawing near for him to pass on.
My response to him was, "I am happy for him and praying for you".
It is such a comfort when we know someone is going to heaven. That is the promise God gives us in the Bible when we have a relationship with Christ.

I am very confident that Jose's dad is in heaven and I am happy for him.
I had the privilege of baptizing him just a month ago.

Some of you may have seen the video at FRC on the weekend a few weeks ago.

I had the privilege today to do his celebration service this morning.

It was one of those happy yet sad times.

It was sad because we will miss this great man.
This is a man who brought his family to the United States with nothing from Cuba. He worked hard and made sure his family had everything they needed to be successful in life.
His was one of those stories that you could write a book about.

I am glad he did what he did because I was able to meet a man that I could respect. I am also grateful because his son has become a close friend to me.
We will all miss him.

It was a happy time because of the text I received Sunday night.
What a gift from God to receive the message, "Garland, Dad is in heaven now".

4 comments:

SmilingSally said...

Death is a sweet/sour thing isn't it? I'm glad that you had some comforting words to give your friend and for the part you played in his dad's arrival in Heaven.

all day (allen d) said...

It was a cool time with them on Mon night and the chance to help with his baptism. I know you and Arturo did a great job the next day. Way to let God use you guys for His glory.

Anonymous said...

The story touches my heart. It makes me feel sad, and yet happy. I feel my eyes fill with tears, but yet I do not know if they are from sadness or happiness. Our prayers go out to his entire family and you for being strong and comforting to all of us.

Anonymous said...

It is with no doubt, a beautiful story about GOD answering prayers even when we less expecting..and a son that follows a nudge, and helped God reach their kids.It doesn't matter how old we are,is never too late;our soul has no wrinkles and eternity is always available.
To Jose, our prayers for strength. For you Pastor G. our support because I know that's a healing moment in your live, but also, the story that any pastor will love to share.

Tainna Tapanes.