Willow River, BC
My father very unexpectedly passed away November 26, only 10 days after discovering that he had cancer. I had four days with my dad in the hospital – all good days. I saw the Lord bless my dad, my family, and me and in so many ways in those last four days that I have only praise to give to my Lord. My father was 76 years old; he was no theologian, but he told me several times that knowing Christ was the most important decision anyone could make. My father asked me to come pray with him and the rest of our family. I still remember his hearty amen at the end of the prayer. He quoted his favorite verse, John 3:16. As I was sitting by my dad’s bed, my mother went over and gave him two kisses, and my father told my mother that he loved her very much; they had been married 54 years. I still remember seeing the incredible peace in my father’s eyes as he spoke to the grandchildren and tried to encourage them not to get too upset over what was taking place. My father has always supported me in going into ministry and was always proud that I was serving the Lord. He understood the sacrifice we were willing to make to follow the Lord wherever He wants us. I was given the greatest of honors to do my father’s entire funeral. I had promised the Lord that I would honor my father but glorify the Lord Jesus Christ; 350 people came to my father’s funeral, and I used John 3:16 and 17 to bring the message of salvation and hope to those who came. I know many unchurched people came, and I know the Lord met with people that day. I will never forget how God gave strength to powerfully proclaim His Son to everyone that day. I just praise the Lord for all that He accomplishes through each and every one of us. I’d like to thank all of you who have been praying for me and my family. All of us in Christ rejoice. Joe & Margaret Giesbrecht
