The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Acts 20:34-38, “’You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to the men

who were with me.

35 “’In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and

remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to

receive.”’

36 “And when he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all.

37 “And they began to weep aloud and embraced Paul, and repeatedly kissed him,

38 grieving especially over the word which he had spoken, that they should see his face no more. And

they were accompanying him to the ship.”

If you’ve ever visited loving family members or friends who lived at a distance, you know the anguish

you feel when it comes time to part and go home. Those who are staying have anguish, too, as there is no less variation in their love. Departure is a difficulty to both parties.

Paul was hurrying to Jerusalem, taking time only for a brief stop at Ephesus. It was an emotional meeting as he recalled how he had labored to avoid being a burden to the believers there. He reminds the Ephesian Church of the words of Jesus, who said, “It is more blessed to given than to receive.” Then he knelt and prayed with them all. And they began to weep aloud,” knowing that they would “see his face no more.”

Fourteen months ago, I came face-to-face with the fact that I would see my loving wife no more. She

departed this Earth at the age of 85, after 64 years of encouraging me in life and ministry in numerous countries of this world. I miss hearing her pray, and there’s so much more.

Today, I came face-to-face with the loss of another dear and blessed friend, Dr. Ray Hull, primary physician to both of us for many years, as well as to other members of our family. He was an encourager, too — a Christian extraordinaire!

I have wept for each of them, knowing that in this life I will see them no more. Yet, it is more accurate that I should weep for myself, for they are free from the torments of this earthly life, and they look now with joy unspeakable upon the Face of our Blessed Redeemer, the LORD Jesus Christ.

Take nothing in this life for granted. Rest your hope upon the LORD Jesus Christ alone. Share Him and His death and resurrection with all who are not saved. Fulfill your calling on this Earth. One day, the sun

will refuse to shine; and it will be too late to attend to tomorrow’s responsibilities.

Heartily & Prayerfully in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

P. S. Please pray for Catherine Hull, who also labors under the Coronavirus. She faces grimm days ahead.

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas 72764

United States of America

“We never know that God is all we need

until He becomes all that we have.”