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death

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LIVING WITHOUT JIM

“My best friend was in heaven. And I was still on earth.” Sue Keddy chose those bittersweet words to begin the story of her husband, Jim’s, sudden death and her life without him. What unfolds is an inspiring, raw account of grief, faith and courage. She has my gratitude for sharing her journey. Sue's story is personal for me. MARRIAGE, MINISTRY AND MISSIONS I attended Bible College with Jim Keddy for three years. His quit wit, winsome smile, artistic talent, gentle spirit and positive attitude won him the admiration and respect of classmates and profs, alike. Jim was our Student Council President. He married Sue Ozard, a pastor’s daughter, three months after I married Jocelyn. We graduated together a year…
Bob Jones
November 8, 2014
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THE FAULT IN OUR STARS: 11 REALITIES OF LOVE AND LOSS

 “The Fault in Our Stars” is a widely popular young adult novel by John Green about teens finding love in a time of cancer. “This is truth - sorry!” says Hazel Grace at the outset of the story. Hazel is the 16 year-old central character and her warning sets the stage for the anticipation of heartbreak. She has managed to hold lung cancer at bay thanks to an experimental drug, but breathing tubes and a portable oxygen tank remind us of cancer’s constant threat. Hazel's Hero With Feet Of Clay Hazel is sent by her anxious and caring parents to a cheesy, church sponsored, cancer support group where she meets the love of her life. (How come church sponsored support…
Bob Jones
June 8, 2014
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16 INSIGHTS ABOUT DEPRESSION AND LOSS

9/16/13 Photographer: Adam Rose When Matthew Warren died by suicide, Easter 2013, his parents' hearts were shattered. He was only 27 years old. Rick and Kay Warren were known for a ministry of hope. How would they survive his tragic death? Where was hope now? The Warrens share some remarkable insights they learned and lived. 16 Insights 1. "I’d rather have all my questions unanswered and walk with God than not walk with God and have all my questions answered.” – Rick 2.  “I’m terrible but I’m OK. In other words, we’re going to survive and someday we’ll thrive again. It’s the worst thing that could ever happen.” – Kay 3.  “I’ve cried every single day since Matthew died, but…
Bob Jones
October 3, 2013
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WHAT’S WITH COMMUNION?

Everyone wants to be remembered for at least one thing after they're gone. Jesus told his disciples, then and now, one thing to do to "remember him." One Thing The night before Jesus was crucified he called his disciples together. He knew what they didn't - this would be their last supper together. He wanted to make a lasting impression on them. He knew losing focus or getting sidetracked from their faith would be a threat. Jesus took unleavened bread and broke it and told them to eat - this was "his body." He took wine and gave it them and told them to drink - this was "his blood." Then he told them to repeat this practice in remembrance…
Bob Jones
September 23, 2013
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GOD NEVER WASTES OUR PAIN

God never wastes anything…not even your pain. The pain we experience in life is precious. God cares for you, so He will never waste your pain. Greg and Sherry Stevens understand that truth. Their 13-year old daughter Cassie passed away on July 17, 2013 after a courageous battle with cancer. I knew Cassie only “from a distance.” She lived in Nevada and made summer visits to our church, North Pointe, to be with her grandparents. She was there when her grandfather, Richard, was baptized in water. Then there were the prayer times when she was hospitalized in California after the onset of brain cancer. Though distant, she was close to our hearts. Cassie passed away in July 2013 from cancer.…
Bob Jones
August 13, 2013
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CASSIE, CANCER AND COMFORT

In February 2013, Cassie Stevens was a healthy, happy teen. She developed what was thought to be a sinus infection. One surgery, five MRI's, five CT scans, one bone scan, one PET scan, two biopsy's, one lumbar puncture, and one bone marrow biopsy later, Cassie was diagnosed with cancer. Why Cancer Doesn't Have To Have The Last Word Cassie's family, friends and strangers prayed for her to be healed. If God answered prayer based on volume and sincerity, Cassie would be happily at home with her family today. On July 17, 2013 Cassie passed away after fighting a courageous battle with cancer. Cassie was only 13. For a parent, the death of a child is life's worst nightmare. Sherry and…
Bob Jones
July 20, 2013
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FAITH, HOPE AND JOY

"Faith, hope and joy to you." These are the words I write on the dedication page of each copy of the book Ornament. They aren't offered lightly. The words are tested and true. Kristen Fersovitch a thirty-year old wife, and mother of three boys under five, facing inoperable cancer, showed me over and over again how powerful the words are. Even in death they ring true. GREEN BALLOONS AND HOPE Kristen passed away on October 4, 2013 after a two year battle with cancer. The day after Kristen’s funeral I accompanied her body with John Davediuk from Serenity Funeral Services, to Garth Evangelical Cemetery - a small, countryside, cemetery. In preparation for the graveside service three green-coloured, star-shaped balloons had…
Bob Jones
January 14, 2013