Seasons in the Sun

Yesterday Chelsea and I went to a memorial service for Jon Francis, our Director of Youth Ministry.

It was a moving service with our teenagers providing the Eulogy, songs and scripture readings. Jon liked to get the kids involved with the services so I am sure he was smiling as he saw how well they did.

Chelsea read the following scripture from Eugene Peterson's "The Message" (The Bible in Contemporary Language). Acts 20:24-28

"What matters most to me is to finish what God started: the job the Master Jesus gave me of letting everyone I meet know all about this incredibly extavagant generosity of God. And so this is goodbye. You're not going to see me again, nor I you, you whom I have gone among for so long proclaiming the news of God's inaugurated kingdom. I've done my best for you, given you my all, held back nothing of God's will for you. Now it's up to you."

This was Paul's addresss to the leaders of the congregation of Ephesus, but could have easily been Jon's message to our congregation, reminding us that we need to continue to provide meaningful ministry for our youth.

Above is a photo collage created by my friend Bob. It shows Jon with his great smile, Grand Mogul and Jon's entry in the logbook after peaking the mountain:

07/15/06-
*LHBC and Ogden Utah
Climbed avalanche field to east face and east ridge.
Great times bouldering!
All Glory to God for the climb and the beautiful Sawtooths.

Rest in Peace, Jon, wherever you are.