Tuesday, January 18, 2011
every week when i receive the email bulletin on email, i always open the email with apprehension, thinking what news will it bring this week, and every time when i see one with Graham's name, i just sort of tense up, not knowing what to expect, wanting to hear good news, and every time, that's what it is, good news.
few weeks back, Pastor Mike sent out an email saying Graham was not very well, that there was fluid in his lungs and he was in the hospital and everything, but after a few days, was better and discharged. felt relieved that he was feeling better.
then...today...when i opened my email, again i saw Graham's name on the subject title, and my heart started beating faster once again. i was thinking 'pls let it be good, pls let it be good' as i clicked on the email.
but this time, it was not to be. it said that Graham had went to be with the Lord last night. I can't say i know Graham very well personally, and i dont usually go around initiating conversation with people, but Graham, after all, was our Senior Pastor and i can say that he's a great, charismatic guy, confident, passionate about Christ, and his sermons were never boring. its just the opposite.
I remember there was once i was reading the noticeboards after service and he was standing at the door greeting people, and most people would just ignore somebody like me standing there reading something, but no, he came over, smiled and actually chatted with me. That was a heartwarming experience, having the Senior Pastor personally talking to me, and it showed how nice and down-to-earth a guy he was.
his mesothelioma diagnosis shocked us all when it was announced last year in June because he looked so healthy before we knew better. it was very encouraging to experience his optimistic outlook, high spirits, and absolute faith in God throughout the whole ordeal, but now, he is finally pain free.
As we look back, we will remember Graham, and all he has done for us, for Subi Church, and most of all, for God. I'm sure Graham is smiling right now, at being able to meet his Creator face to face, pain-free and worry-free. I pray for Tracy, Paige and Carson, that they will be able to find love, strength, and comfort in this time of sadness, from their loved ones and from the people around them. There will be a day when we will all be united in one Kingdom again.
As 2 Timothy, Chapter 4, Verse 7 says: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
R.I.P Graham.