[Simon Peter]

Gerald and Rosanna are members of the Amish church. They are in their upper 30's and have six children ranging from 16yr old - 2 yrs old. Gerald has been active in prison ministries and has a passion for spreading the gospel and been an outstanding example as a husband and father. Everyone in church has a high regard for Gerald and his walk with God. The harmony in his marriage and his tightly knit family will tell you how he is respected as a husband, father, son, and a brother in the church.

Last weekend we went to visit Gerald and his family as his time seems to be running out here on earth. He was diagnosed with a tumor on his brain several months ago. The tumor is now active and appears very aggressive. It appears as though Gerald is, indeed, losing his battle with cancer. His sister called us and said, "If you still want to talk to Gerald... you must come soon.

We were invited to partake in the worship services that were planned for Sunday for his and her families to be held at his home 2 1/2 hrs from our house. How could we resist!!?

Oh, the suffering we saw.. it brought back memories for us. The physical and emotional, and mental suffering was obvious. It seemed like we could almost read their facial expressions as if they were asking, "Why?" "Doesn't God care for us anymore?" "Is He chastening us?" Why doesn't He hear our prayers?" "Where have we gone wrong?" That evening when we returned home we went to a local park. There I was introduced to a couple, Jim & Melissa, that shared their testmonies on finding truth and how God worked miracles in their lives, including healings. Long story short...

My question in behalf of people like Gerald and his family... "Where is God in all this?"

Simon Peter

[Joe Keim]

Simon Peter, on 27 July 2010 - 06:14 PM, said:

My question in behalf of people like Gerald and his family... "Where is God in all this?"

There seems to be only one good answer to this age old question.

Isaiah 55:8-9
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Nothing else comes close to making sense.

May the Lord provide peace and strength to Gerald, Rosanna and their children. My heart bleats for them.

[Valerie]

When you've been through the same experience or similar, your heart takes on their pain, remembering your own.
God is in their midst-He's wanting to comfort them IN this suffering. Your own loss, Simon Peter made this scripture so real to your family in this situation:

God comforts us in all our afflictions so that we may be able to comfort them which are in trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted. 2 Cor. 1:3-4

As Joe pointed out in the scripture above, (that I think is always on the forefront of my mind), we just need to realize He does hear our prayers, but we cannot force His hand. He has a plan in place. It won't make sense. It did not make sense that He became flesh, dwelt among us, died on the cross, and rose again so that we may have life.

Jesus is there in their midst, and you bring Him in with you as He works through you, offering the comfort you can now with experience share how the Lord got you through. It is so hard to watch others pain-and you just want to snatch it away from them, but God has a different plan than that. How we need to get ahold of the fact, that this life is so short-we are just passing through.

Our pastor gave a message Sunday. We just lost a member to cancer. Seems she was in remission for years and seemingly out of the woods, so they adopted a baby from overseas and they already had two children. Pastor had to admonish our congregation for those who tried to force scripture of healing on this family-we have to be so careful, when praying a family through, and walking with them through these painful trials. Love and listen, and pray, they will always receive that. God Bless you for being His hands, His feet, and His heart in their suffering. We will pray with you too for them.

[Joe Keim]

Sometimes, I think as Christians we think, hey, we don't deserve to go through this! And we come up with so many question for God: Why are you doing this to me God? Am I not part of Your family? What Father could do this to their child? Don't you care?

But the Bible says:

Romans 8:22 ---- For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.

How much of Creation is groaning and travailing in pain? ALL of it. Yes, humans, animals, trees, fish, birds, flowers, etc! The whole Creation is swimming in pain!

Acts 14:21-22 ---- Paul...exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

Rev. 1:9 ---- I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation...

1 Kings 19:4 ---- ...and he (Elijah) requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.

2 Cor. 1:8 ---- ...we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life:

Mark 14:32-34 ---- ...and [Jesus] began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy; And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch.

Where do we go for comfort in time of distress? Well, first we need to understand where comfort and mercy comes from. They are both gifts from God.

2 Cor. 1:3-4 ---- Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

When we are discouraged…

a. Remember God’s faithfulness
b. Take a day off and get alone with God
c. Share your burden with another Christian

1 Cor. 13:12 ---- For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

[Henry Byler]

Quote

Joe Keim wrote:2 Cor. 1:3-4
Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

The thing that stands out to me there, it says God comforts us IN OUR tribulation, not that He will necessarily take us out of it, or away from it. So many Christians, I feel believe that if God does not take the tribulation away from them, He is not answering their prayers.

Easier said than done I suppose, but, if we can keep our focus on God, even when we are in the middle of it, He will be faithful in giving us comfort.

Rev: 21
1 Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. 2 Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. 4 And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

If we persevere, in the end we will have the ultimate comfort. I pray that we all can keep that as our perspective, as we deal with tribulation.

[Eli Stutzman]

One of the more profound experiences in my life was when I volunteered as an usher for a Kathryn Kuhlman crusade. Shortly after beginning the preaching, she announced that someone's ear had popped and their hearing was restored. After a few more sentences, more ears were healed. Then backs and other ailments were named. People from all over the auditorium began to come forward. A young lady made her way past me assisted by two of her friends, tossing her head back every so often. I asked what the matter was, and they replied that her neck was healed and she was trying it out. While we saw many healed, some leaving their wheelchairs behind, many, many more were not healed and probably went home disappointed.

I often wondered about those who were not healed. The questions had to be there; why others and not me? That's how prayer for healing is to this day. At least in my experience. I have occasionally seen great things even as we prayed, yet often we see nothing. You can blame it on my lack of faith or other failings. It just doesn't make sense at times. Yet I shall continue to pray because I want to be there when God moves in a special way. Even though we see nothing miraculous take place, we have the ministry of comfort and compassion. Never is it a waste of time to pray with someone. Sometimes just holding a hand is all you can do. So Gerald, may God touch your life and give you all your needs even at this moment.

Philippians 4: 19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

[Simon Peter]

Eli Stutzman said:

I often wondered about those who were not healed. The questions had to be there; why others and not me? That's how prayer for healing is to this day. At least in my experience. I have occasionally seen great things even as we prayed, yet often we see nothing. You can blame it on my lack of faith or other failings. It just doesn't make sense at times. Yet I shall continue to pray because I want to be there when God moves in a special way. Even though we see nothing miraculous take place, we have the ministry of comfort and compassion. Never is it a waste of time to pray with someone. Sometimes just holding a hand is all you can do. So Gerald, may God touch your life and give you all your needs even at this moment.

Philippians 4: 19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

The most valuable thing a believer can demonstrate to God is his faith. I'm not talking about a casual, passive, comfortable faith, but a strong, vibrant, risk taking, all-abandonment type of faith.

We have a tendacy to look at God through the same lenses we use to look at our earthly father. The results can be massive confusion. We are unable to measure or formulate God. It does challenge our faith at times when it seems so obvious that God doesn't give us the same care as our earthly fathers would. For example, I know Gerald's father would keep him from having cancer if it were within his power to do so. Our earthly fathers would do all within their power to keep us from accidents, heartaches, disappointments,etc.

But the actions of our heavenly Father are less predictable. He allows the most heartbreaking of circumstances. We then ask ourselves,"Does He still love me?" The answer is 'yes'. He loves us even more than our earthly father could. But He has a different agenda. Our earthly father values our comfort...our heavenly Father values our faith.

Our earthly father values happiness.. our heavenly Father values holiness.

Our earthly father values the blessings of time.. our heavenly Father values the blessings of eternity.

That is why Paul wrote...

Rom 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

If we have an incorrect concept of our heavenly Father we will think He is unfair, unloving, unjust, etc. This will cause us to falter in our faith, trust and obedience to Him. Let us come to grips with His Grace, mercy, love and compassion. And all the adversity we encounter is meant to make us stronger.

The greater the challenge .. the greater the witness.. or should I say potential witness.

Simon Peter

[Valerie]

Praise the Lord, for this thread. Talk about a good word in due season.
Yesterday I received an email from a friend, with devastating news. She emailed with a plead for prayer. Her sister in law, Lynnie, had been single up until her late 40's. She was a pretty testy person from all I heard, (probably, hurting). Then Lynnie met a man, fell and love and married last year. Her whole demeanor had changed and she was so happy. Then tragedy struck day before yesterday, when her new husband, while working construction, was killed by a car whose driver was distracted. My friend's email said the whole family's shaken up as well as their faith-
They are a large, close knit family, whose religion does not encourage reading & studying the Word.

One of the beauties of this forum, is the ability to email these threads-I will pass along these to her, that she may feel the comfort of your words and perspectives, and scriptures, and be able to share them with the family, if led to do so. I know my friend will benefit from you all.
Please pray for the family, the Kichurchaks.

Thank you for your faithfulness in posting, you never know who they may help or touch.

[Simon Peter]

"I cry to you God but you do not answer. I stand before you, and you don't even bother to look", screams Job in desperation. Many of God's people have endured intense suffering.. even David, a man after God's own heart. There are times that the faith of God's people was 'hanging on a thin thread'. Yes' God's people are tested ... for His honor and His glory.

Imagine on a certain warm sunny afternoon in Palastine are three people each hanging on a cross since 9:00AM. You notice how the One on the middle cross is covered with blood, spittle, and has whip welts all over Him.You see deep gashes where His flesh stands wide open. You think,"Well, where is His Dad? Doesn't anyone care for this Man? And at that time He pulls Himself up with His arms.. and cries out with a loud voice," MY GOD!!.... MY GOD!!... WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?

Then you wait for an answer... but there is none!! Only silence except for people going about their business as usual. Does His father or His God that He called upon ..really care? You know the Father could have ended the suffering within a split second... yet He silently observed.(I believe this is where there was silence in heaven. All of heaven was observing with full knowledge that God could stop this suffering in a heartbeat. Will God actually allow His Son to go all the way to death?... so you and I can be with Him forever and ever. Does He really love you and me that much? Indeed He does!!

Notice..Jesus didn't cry out, "My Father ..". He cried out,"MY GOD.." Do you think there was Someone suffering more than just physical pain...Was He disconnected with His father? Do you think His Father was suffering as well?

How can a good God be all-powerful and allow suffering?
How do we deal with unanswered prayer?
Where is God when we hurt?
How do you think Jesus would answer the questions above? He truly understands our sufferings more than we can imagine..Can't you hear His whisper," Don't give up.. it will all be worth it."

My question to you, dear reader,"Are you willing to trust God when you suffer (unfairly) and it seems He remains silent?

Does He care? Oh yes, He cares!!

Simon Peter

[Joe Keim]

Thank you for sharing your heart, Simon. Your message spoke for many. I would like to use it for the Amish Voice, if you don't care.

[Simon Peter]

Joe Keim, on 30 July 2010 - 05:50 AM, said:

Thank you for sharing your heart, Simon. Your message spoke for many. I would like to use it for the Amish Voice, if you don't care.

Yes Joe, feel free to use, add, delete, or make changes as you see fit. May it bring glory to my Saviour.. for He alone is worthy.

Hey really, I don't have reserved copyrights on any of my posts.

Simon Peter

[Joe Keim]

Chris, on 31 July 2010 - 12:08 AM, said:

The driver then died and the passenger was saved that night, never the same. As a result numerous family members and friends of the driver and passenger have found Christ as a result of the driver's witness. The driver's father was even saved as a result, AND THE DRIVER'S FATHER HAS EVEN STATED THAT HE KNOWS NOW THAT GOD CALLED HIS SON HOME AT SUCH AN EARLY AGE IN ORDER THAT HE AND OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS AND FRIENDS WOULD BE SAVED. It was always his son's wish that he would find salvation, and through the son's death, he did!!

Chris, your story reminded me of the Christian man who prayed for his friend's salvation for 40 years. The day finally came when the Christian died and his friend was still unsaved. During the funeral, the preacher got up and preached a powerful salvation message and still the friend did not give his heart to Christ. After the funeral, they took the Christian's body to the cemetery and as they were lowering the body into the grave, the friend fell to his knees and cried out to God for salvation.

[Simon Peter]

Gerald passed on this afternoon on the way home from the hospital since the doctors were unable to help him any further. His wife, Rosanna, and their 2 boys, Kevin (16) and Caleb (14) and his father (Jonas) were also in the van when Gerald was escorted out of this world.

We can only imagine what Rosanna and their 6 children are feeling right now. They can think back at all the things they did for Gerald and be thankful for the opportunity to do something for him.

>>> Here is a picture of our crew that went into Bibb County Correctional Facility. Gerald is the second from the right in the front row.(He is wearing a black jacket) His bishop, Sam Hochstetler,(with a grey beard) is standing behind him. Gerald was a man that had a real passion for the Lord Jesus Christ. Several weeks before he died he shared a burden on his heart. He had a burden for passing up opportunities and not sharing the gospel with people he met. He had a powerful testimony of God's mercy & grace as he shared with people around him.

Please lift Rosanna and her family in constant prayer for comfort, peace, and God's direction for her life.

We will all miss him.

Simon Peter

[Joe Keim]

Simon Peter, on 03 August 2010 - 12:44 AM, said:

Please lift Rosanna and her family in constant prayer for comfort, peace, and God's direction for her life.

We will pray for Rosanna and her family. Thank you for attaching the photo, Simon.

[Valerie]

We'll continue to pray too, Simon Peter, and know they have alot of support, appreciate you giving us the opportunity to come along side-
Sometime, later, would be nice to understand how the Amish help take care of a family as Rosannas after something like this happens-God Bless you for being there for them.

[Simon Peter]

Tomorrow is the funeral of a dear, dear friend of mine. Gerald has has been an inspiration at home and abroad. He was talking about the things of God continuously.

The hidden question is,"Why does God remove people that are needed in their homes, communities, and churches?

My only conclusion to such complicated matters is this,"Once the mystery of God is finished and we were to look back in time and could see this occurance... we would say "Amen Lord, we now see why You did this and we wouldn't want ot any other way... Praise the Lord of glory and let's bring honor and glory unto Him.. for He alone is worthy to be praised.

Farther along we'll know all about it. Farther along we'll understand why.

Yes, my heart says amen to Thy will, Lord... And I know that thou lovest me still.

All things work together for good... When God's love is understood. God is good and everything He does is right.

Simon Peter

[Valerie]

There should be a plaque made of the revelation God showed you-would be a nice gift for those who have suffered loss.
today is the funeral, love and prayers to the family and friends, and co-laborers in the ministry Gerald served so faithfully in, may his children follow in his footsteps, in following the footsteps of their Savior-ministry of helping to set the captives free-captives of many kinds-inside and outside the bars, are prisoners

The Spirt of the Lord is upon Me
Because He has anointed Me
To preach the gospel to the poor
He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives
And recovery of sight to the blind
To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord (Isiah 61)

God Bless all who make this their life-, as Gerald was doing, now rejoicing with captives above who were set free
because someone, decided to be the hands, feet, eyes, heart, of Jesus

[Simon Peter]

Valerie said:

today is the funeral, love and prayers to the family and friends, and co-laborers in the ministry Gerald served so faithfully in, may his children follow in his footsteps, in following the footsteps of their Savior-ministry of helping to set the captives free-captives of many kinds-inside and outside the bars, are prisoners

The doctors suggested to the family that Gerald might as well go home .. as there is nothing they can do for him anymore.

Gerald's wife and children refused to leave his bedside at all. To transfer Gerald home from the hospital they nedded to split up in 3 different vehicles since some of Geralds brothers and sisters were there as well. The first van had Gerald (on a cot), his wife Rosanna, their 2 sons, Kevin(16), and Caleb (14), Gerald's dad and step-mother. The other 2 vans had their 4 daughters; Clara Ann(12), Maria(9), MaKayla(6), Regina(3) and Gerald's brother Allen and sister Rachel and part of their families.

They had a heart monitor on Gerald. The nurse at the hospital doubted that Gerald will live to see his home. The monitor showed 50 as they traveled toward home the numbers gradually started dropping....45... 40 .... 30..... 20 beats per minute 10... all within 30 minutes. Suddenly the driver of Gerald's van pulls off into a McDonalds parking lot. The passengers in the other vans all said,"Oh no... now what?"
As soon as they parked everyone was out of all the vans. All the family members were standing around Gerald as life departed from his body in McDonalds parking lot. Can you imagine the scene? A short time later all were in their vans again.. going home.

When they arrived at home the children helped convey Geralds body into the house... when suddenly Kevin lay down on top of his dad's body and cried," Dad ... NO ... DAD NOOOO... WE LOVE YOU!!! WE NEED YOU!!! DAD... PLEASE!!!! I WANT TO BE JUST LIKE YOU.. DAD... I LOVE JESUS JUST LIKE YOU DAD.... I'LL WALK WITH JESUS JUST LIKE YOU...I PROMISE YOU.. DAD!!! " Poor Kevin cried uncontrollably while he embraced the body of his father.

Gerald had the hearts of his wife and every one of his dear children. He blessed them all... and was such a blessing to his churchand community.

My question to all fathers reading this post...."Do your sons want to be just like you? Do you have the hearts of your children?"

Simon Peter

[Henry Byler]

Quote

Gerald had the hearts of his wife and every one of his dear children. He blessed them all... and was such a blessing to his churchand community.

My question to all fathers reading this post...."Do your sons want to be just like you? Do you have the hearts of your children?"

Simon Peter

What a question, what a challenge to ourselves. It is hard to add to that. As the end times surely seem to be closing in on us, I think, so many kids these days never really have a chance. As I have gotton older and have matured a bit in the Lord, (I hope) it is heart breaking to see what is all around us. People rushing, rushing, to where. Surely, they are rushing towards eternity and have no idea what it is all about.