There are few people in our lives that are truly extraordinary; who touch our lives in significant ways; who are truly great friends. God blesses us by bringing these people into our lives. My son in law, Jacob, was one of these extraordinary people. It is with tears that I write this because at a young age, he has unexpectedly lost his life. My daughter and he had only been married a few years. My heart aches for my daughter and her three year old son. It saddens me that the baby on the way will never meet their father.
Yet what a full life Jacob lived. A life of joy. Sometimes silly because he loved to make others laugh and make them happy. He was so transparent. I often wish I could share my thoughts so openly. He prayed the same way, so honest with God. A loving and patient father. He was always protective of his family. Willing to love sacrificially. Willing to do the hard things. He told others about the Lord in his own way. Diligent in his work, he loved setting big goals; and he loved doing big things. He loved his big toys. He remodeled two houses. He built big grain bins and tall grain legs. One must often look skyward to see his work. He loved the view from up there. He loved chasing thunder storms with a drone. He was so content with his life, his family, his home, and his God. He loved the place where God had put him.
Why, oh God, did it have to be him? Why do the wicked prosper, get away with such awful things that offend you so, and still live to an old age? Yet you have called this good young man home so early.
I don’t like what God has brought about, and I don’t understand the reason. But I must trust that God knows best and God does what he does because He is a sovereign God. He knows what it is like to lose His only son whom He loves. He would not have us endure this pain unless it was necessary. How can I do anything but proclaim that the Lord is good. He will lead us through any valley no matter how dark. We do not walk alone. His glorious light is at the end. Jacob walked with God, and I am a little jealous now. His faith is now sight, for he has met Jesus.
What about you? If you suddenly lost your life, what would happen to you? Are you confident that you would be in heaven? If there is any doubt, seek the Lord today. If you haven’t read the book, God’s Building, on this web site check it out and thoughtfully consider the message it brings.
