“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” — Hebrews 12:1
The author of Hebrews tells his readers to look upon all the faithful people who have come before them. Seeing those who lived and died in the truth of the Lord is meant to be an encouragement that strengthens us, the church, to endure to the end. We will one day, together, receive our reward in Christ. It is the shared reward of our heroes of the faith, both ancient and modern.
This has been a tough year for Eastern Hills in that we’ve lost many of our dear brothers and sisters in Christ. It does no injustice to Hebrews 12:1 to say that we should look at their lives and be encouraged. Their witness and the fact that we have been surrounded by it for so long is a great gift. As you read the following names and the number of years they were members of Eastern Hills, no doubt you will miss them greatly but consider the witness for Christ they leave behind for us all.
Margie Allison (46), Larry Armstrong (37), Annie Best (42), Peggy Cole (24), Howard Duncan (46), Maxine Farnham (8), Jean Fuller (55), Jim Gouge (38), Martha Harper (12), Lee Hartley (12), James Henderson (would have joined last year but health would not allow), Hugh Hines (45), Mary Holman (31), LaVera Hopkins (10), Joe Huffman (3), Martha Johnson (40), Willodine Moore (14), Adine Moseley (53), John Nichols (22), Marie Penn (14), Mamie Pritchett (53), Jackie Ruston (64), Euvene Ryals (64), Marie Claire Sellers (15), James Sharpe (3), Jamalyn Smith (46), Marjorie Spain (12), James Spears (54), Bob Thompson (55), Linda Westbrook (40), Wayne Wright (15)
There are so many ways to express the impact these people had on our lives, but one of the most appropriate ways is gratitude. Especially during this Thanksgiving season, we give thanks for all these fallen saints. They mean so much to us as friends, family, and fellow workers in the cause of Christ. As we consider this list, may we be reminded how Eastern Hills is truly surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. So to all the saints from Eastern Hills who made it to their heavenly home this year, thank you!
Pastor Josh