Dear Family and Friends,
Thank you so very much for your kindness and faithfulness over these past several months. It has been nearly two years since I returned to the U.S. – originally for leave, though with the knowledge that my father had been diagnosed with an advanced lung cancer. Due to the severity of his illness, it became necessary to embark on a leave of absence, which commenced in the fall of 2012. Subsequently, I had the privilege, – along with other family members – of being at Dad’s bedside when his earthly tent folded in February 2013.
Marjorie and Darrell Stone originally purchased their gravestone around 2000 when both were well. Of course, it was inconceivable at that time to envision a day when they would be laid to rest here. But, as Scripture says, “death is the destiny of all men” (Ecclesiastes 7:2). Two more precious parents one could not have asked for.
Mother’s gentle spirit combined with a simple elegance and selfless regard for others were informed by her reverence for God. Our father’s kindness and generosity, his ever-present concern for and interest in others, and his discipline and integrity in business were a blessing to all who knew him. Prior to Dad’s home going, I’d accepted the responsibility to manage his affairs. Though initially reluctant to assume an executor role, I later came to see it as a way to honor Dad and Mother. With these obligations coming to a close, it is again possible to focus on the work in Africa.
Represented by the memorial is, of course, the first death – which eventually comes to all men on account of Adam’s sin. It is the second death, that described in Revelation 20:14 as “the lake of fire,” from which The Lord Jesus delivers one who is “born again” through Him. This is indeed the imperative that Jesus shared with Nicodemus in John 3:3. There is a simple maxim which initially came to my notice in Cameroon: “Born once, die twice. Born twice, die once.” Owing to your faithfulness and generosity, it is my privilege to again be returning to Cameroon in order to care for patients in a setting where one can freely share the truth of who Jesus is and what He has done to deliver us from the second death. My flight is scheduled to depart on June 27th. Please know how much your messages and prayers have meant during this time of intervening absence.
With Love,
Julie