Dear Bro.Edwin,
Three years ago we wrote a letter expressing our love and admiration on your 82nd birthday, for a keepsake book your family was making. This week, after the Lord Jesus called you to his side, Sally and I were rereading the letter. It still describes you 3 years later, as you have remained steadfast, and a true "Time-Tested Memorial" for Jesus! You have been a stalwart soldier, both naturally and spiritually in the 10 years the Lord has given us the privileged to know you!! Thank you for making us a part of your family. We miss you every day. Sally asked me to put this letter up, and we still mean every word; only we should say Happy 18-21 year old BIRTHDAY! ! :) We look forward to seeing you very soon, "just a breath away."
Letter written April 19,2012:
Dearest and Most Beloved Bro.Edwin,
I know you have probably asked the Lord many times why he keeps you bound to this earth, when your heart longs for wings, to fly free. Yet, what a "Time-Tested Memorial" you have, and continue to be, for Jesus here on earth. You are STILL a GREAT strength to all those who are blessed to be a part of your life..You give more strength and love from your wheelchair, than many will ever give standing on their feet.. You are a soldier of the Cross, and you have been faithful in battle...You have suffered humbly, quietly, patiently, and with dignity..... all, while having a loving smile upon your face.. You have shown us all, through your life and suffering, how to be a warrior for the Lord in the face of EVERY Obstacle!! You have been a wounded soldier, yet, you have not complained...
You continue to demonstrate this Gospel to all you meet; You have Bloomed, where you are planted!!
Your children have risen up and they call you Blessed!! They STILL turn to YOU for strength, even today, in times of trouble....and just a look from you can quieten their fears and bring them comfort. You're a wonderful daddy...
Your pastor has called you his "Bomber" and has drawn great strength from your stalwart stand for this Message!! You have been a TRUE and FAITHFUL Friend to him...It is obvious, the deep love he has for you!!
The staff, who take care of you daily; who have seen you at your lowest and in your suffering condition, have been forced to take notice..that "THIS is a REAL CHRISTIAN!!" You suffer quietly, yet without complaint.. while continuing to confess the Lord Jesus as your Healer and Savior.
Your friends, who love you, have been privileged to see a MIGHTY MAN of VALOR in Battle, who is leading BY EXAMPLE..... the way to our Heavenly Home.....
It has been our honor to know you Bro.Edwin, to laugh with you, to cry with you, and to rejoice around the Word of God with you.. To share with you what this MESSAGE means in our lives.. To sing with you and for you, and to journey through life beside you!!
We look forward to running the hills of Glory with you one day VERY SOON, and we are so glad that with your 82nd birthday... you are one year closer to your young and Eternal body!!!
"The Spirit and The BRIDE say....."Come Quickly Lord!!!!"
Happyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy 82nd BIRTHDAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!! We love you!!!
The St.John Family,
Bro.Gary, Sis.Leisa, Annahope and Samuel