My parents were missionaries amongst Aboriginal people for nearly 50 years with the Brethren Assemblies, far away from where I live now. They lived with faith and trusted God for all their needs as Proverbs Chapter 3 encourages us to do.
Yesterday, being the recent anniversary of Dad's passing, I decided to visit a little Brethren chapel, not too far from me in honour and memory of my beloved Dad. I thought that someone here may have been praying for Gods work being done and for my parents. I took with me a copy of his funeral service and a copy of the obituary that my brother Howard wrote in honour of Dad, which had been published in the local paper.
The service started at 11am as is tradition for the Brethren. On my arrival I was greeted warmly by various older folk. I introduced myself and asked if anyone had heard my Dad's name. I was directed to an old lady called Betty, 88 years old, the same age my Dad was when he passed. She didn't know Dad personally or that he had passed away and had prayed for him just last week, the anniversary of his passing. I was delighted as was she. She invited me to sit with her. There were some beautiful prayers prayed, reminding us of Jesus death on the cross for us, his love for us that took him to the cross and his obedience to the father. Psalm 22 was read about a prophecy about Jesus death long before he died and then a reading from Mathew 27:35 where the prophecy was fulfilled. At the end of the service I was warmly recognised in front of the small congregation, in honour of my Dad and the work of God through my parents on the mission field.
After the service I was invited back to Colin and Helens place together with Marjory, Helen's 98 year old mother. We had a lovely baked dinner, dessert and coffee. I felt so spoilt. Marjory told me the story of her conversion, when she had given her heart to the Lord at the age of 10. No cars back then, they would walk many kilometres to church on a Sunday. Colin showed me two of the violins he had made and played a lovely tune.
Helen took Marjory back to her little village with a bunch of roses from her garden. Marjory told me that I would be added to her prayer list. I farewelled her with a kiss and gentle embrace.
As I stood to leave, it was now 3:30pm and to my surprise and excitement, Helen brought me a bunch of roses from her beautiful garden as well. The scent exquisite . I was assured of their prayers for me and my family. I am reminded once again that God is faithful and can be trusted completely. He loves me. He loves us all!!
As I drove away , Helen and Colin stood on their deck waving goodbye. Helens garden in full bloom.