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January 16, 2005
Beacon of faith
Every now and again something happens which shines a spotlight on your faith and makes you take a long, hard look at it. One such event for many was the tsunami, for others it has been different events and tragedies, for me it was a simple event this week.
Some of you will recall that I posted an item on the death of my former school master, Neil Emslie. Neil, I knew, was a man of remarkable faith, unshakable in his belief in the promises of the Gospel and in the life to come. He died of lung cancer on the 31st December as I recorded. This week I received a letter from him.
No, it is not from beyond the grave, and no, it was not all a big mistake. He is dead to this life and this world. His letter was posted a few days before he died and is a response to my Christmas card. In it he tells me that he had had some health problems including pneumonia - which I knew - which had left him with a breathing problem which was getting worse. Tests confirmed the worst; he had a cancer of a collapsed lobe in one lung. But, his letter goes on to say:
"At the age of 81, one realises that the end of one's earthly sojourn must be nearer. I would like to stress that I am not at all upset, in fact, on the contrary, I feel almost excited at the prospect of seeing fulfilment of the promises we have pinned our faith to, and especially exciting is the prospect of re-union with my loved ones who have gone before - my darling Pam, my parents, a wonderful mother in law, a darling sister in law and a brother. This is exciting to say the least."
What can one say in the face of such a deeply held faith? What need one say - except: God grant that I may share this faith, that I may cease my doubts and be filled with the certainty of the knowledge of Your presence now and in the life to come. Neil finished his note with the comment "I have been greatly blessed in my life! So enjoyed seeing you again! Bless you ...."
Neil touched us all in special ways, none more special than this. If he has an eptaph, let it be his faith.
Requisecat in Pacem, Mr Chips, your faith has touched us all.
Posted by The Gray Monk at January 16, 2005 10:27 AM