08/10/2026
Two More Widowers.
Several years ago we stayed at Pastor Dexter's home in the Philippines, which is not far from Hallel International Ministries. We became friends, and his dear wife would sit on the porch with us, cook breakfast in the cool of the early morning, and be a charming hostess. As Hallel facilities were completed, we stayed in one of their cottages but often had the chance to see our friends again. Dexter, who loved his wife and took care of her, is now a widower. That man has my respect for his manner and example. It has not been an easy road, and grief is not either.
My neighbors in North Carolina, Elbert and Lynda, became friends when we moved onto the property where Lynda grew up. They lived in back of us, and we enjoyed times together. Eventually, Lynda's declining health meant she had to be in a full care facility. We kept visiting. Elbert, who was not getting around very well, visited her nearly every day for a long time -- until his condition put him in the same facility. Then he stayed with her most every day and gained quite a reputation as he helped care for his wife as he could. She died a week ago. This man also has my respect, and the respect of many of the caregivers who watched him love his wife until she was no more.
Neither of these men was famous or wealthy, but their examples in caring for their wives has not gone unnoticed by the God of Creation. It is our privilege to know them both. By God's grace, we will see Dexter on our next mission trip, and we will be visiting Elbert, as we have been, when we are home in North Carolina.
It is a good day to give thanks. We are still learning to count our days, as the Psalmist exhorts. We pray for these men, who are walking in grief but not forgotten.
