When All We Can Do is Pray........

This past Monday morning, I opened up my email, and received an email from my friend James Arbaugh.  James and I met at Blue Ridge Community College back in 1997.  He's a missionary in Haiti now and even though he's miles away, we still remain in contact.     Because he's a missionary there, I usually expect his monthly updates, but I wasn't expecting this email: (this is only part of the email)

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Wednesday as I drove the long trip from Jeremie to Port-au-Prince my mind pondered what would transpire in the next couple days.  Surely there would be a welcoming party, and sweet times of intimate fellowship with caring family and friends.  Probably the same as Jesus on his way to Jerusalem, he knew something was going to happen; something exciting (triumphal entry), something painful (beating, mocking and betrayal), something hopeless that would appear to end in death (crucifixion and burial).  Jesus was going to Jerusalem to give of Himself, to give for all.  I was on my way to Virginia to comfort (and find comfort) with my mourning family, in the tragic death and burial of my nephew.
Derick Brian Arbaugh
1988-2014
 
My nephew Derick (son of David) died following a motor vehicle accident on Sunday night.  It was just in May that I attended his wedding in Germany.  How quickly joy has turned to sorrow.e sent)

Jesus' death appeared to be total loss and defeat.  But, three days later He was raised to life, giving anyone who believes in Him eternal life!  Derick was a growing Christian who believed in Him.  He was taking new and exciting steps of faith daily, taking him closer to Christ.  Well, he took the final step, and has ascended into the presence and glory of the Lord.  I just hope he saves me a place at the banquet table in Heaven.  Soon our mourning will turn to dancing!  Psalm 30:11

 
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My heart dropped to the floor after reading this email.  I remember meeting Derick a LONG time ago (probably back in '98) when he was just "young man" full of energy with so much respect for those around him.  Even though I only stayed mostly in contact with James, I never did forget the rest of his family.  My parents remembers James and his parents' well and saw the grief I felt for my friends.
 
Would you all pray for this dear family?  Derrick's parents: David and Leigh, especially? His brother, Skyler.  The grandparents (my friend James' parents) John and Miriam and  James? He is back in Haiti and away from family.  He loves what he does, but I know it must be hard to be away from family in this difficult time.   My heart and prayers are with them and grieves with them as well.











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