Rejoicing through Mourning

Dear Readers, it is with a heavy heart of mourning that I inform you that one of those I had ask you to pray for some months ago is now with our Lord in glory. Alan, whom we met first in 1998 upon moving here and joining Chantilly Presbyterian passed from this life to the next tonight at about 7:00, ending his long battle with cancer. You might remember that we attended his 50th birthday celebration on November 27. Alan led worship at Chantilly always with rejoicing in his heart that overflowed from his spirit. He will be missed by his wife and two young children, and a host of friends.

Though we mourn our loss, we join with those in heaven who are rejoicing the finish of Alan's race in this life. We know confidently that his passing is not the end for his hope was in Christ his savior. As was preached this morning from the second chapter of Luke, because of Christ, we have no need to fear death for it is not final. Christ conquered the grave by dying in our place and providing the way to peace with God so that we will join him when this temporal life is over.

Alan's passing will leave a void for many. Those who've enjoyed his leading of worship, who've learned from his example and mentoring on the Christian life and how it is lived out day-by-day. As Alan was a ruling elder, a void will be left there where no doubt many young ruling elders be edited from wise counsel and gentle leading. There will be a void for co-workers and friends who will miss his kindness, faithfulness, and his laugh. And a void will be felt at home where he was a good father to Leah and Aaron, and a loving husband to Robin.

Even in this, though, God is glorified. Alan knew and had seen God at work throughout his illness. Like many, he struggled with why and many doubts and, I am sure, fear from time-to- time, but you likely wouldn't have known it. Alan choose to magnify God in all of his life. He sought God's purpose and actively pursued living that purpose out daily. And even in his struggles, Alan knew he was secure in Christ.

Pleas pray with us for Robin, Leah and Aaron, the extended family and their friends as we mourn our loss. Pray the our mourning gives way to rejoicing for Alan's life, its impact, and his victory sure in Christ.

Goodbye for now, dear friend!