On the photo pages for Ohio program in 2006, and New York program in 2007, you will see many pictures of Luke. He was a student at Ouachita Hills College for 1.5 years, and has been a dilligent canvasser for several years. After GYC ended in December, 2007, he was riding towards home with some friends, when their vehicle wrecked, killing him instantly. As a reminder of his zeal for the Lord, I'll share a few of my thoughts and memories of him. I pray that it is a blessing to you and that you may be challenged to take up the work that lies nearest to you and make a difference for God!
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Memories of Luke... There are hundreds, perhaps thousands of them, and my greatest challenge in writing this is trying to keep a readable length. Luke, a Soldier of Christ, was ever fearless, ever watchful, ever seeking ways to be more efficient with his time, money, and assets, that he may be able to accomplish more for God. With grim determination he battled through physical
setbacks, laughter and scorn, low sales as a colporteur, and yet never let
discouragement overwhelm him.
I remember his phone call from the canvassing field, a few months ago, when he described to me how he'd been beaten by a couple guys on the street, and
though they hadn't taken any of his money or belongings, he did have a few
bruises. However, his only plea was that he be allowed to go back out and
canvass--he didn't want to sit in the van. It took my ORDERS for him to
submit to sitting in the van for 30 minutes until lunch to let the swelling
go down, and wait until after lunch to work again. The smile on his face when
he came home and told me the rest of the story, was radiant with the joy of
Christ and the victory that'd been won for him that day!
I smile as I think of the many times he complained about my required "special
projects" because he didn't want to loose 20 minutes of canvassing time.
Tears fill my eyes, as I remember his unwavering allegiance to be there for
me when I needed help, his enthusiastic dash for the back end of the van,
that he might be the first to get the wheelchair out for me, his everlasting
willingness to run errands for me, or to help me keep the other students in
line, or pass on messages to other leaders. The past two GYCs he was a
faithful brother--sitting with us, eating with us, and always being there for
me when I needed help walking, or assistance.
My greatest treasures from Luke, are a few Bible studies and compositions that he shared with me, while he was at OHC, and the many times he encouraged me to keep strong in the Lord. The hours that he spent calling me on the phone this past two years will also be a special memory. Without Luke, our canvassing programs would never have been the same!
Yes, Luke's life may have been short, but he will have many stars in his
crown, and what a joy it will be to see his face when Christ calls him forth
from the grave, to see the reward that he so long was looking for. Oh, that
we may all be there with Jesus, Luke, and so many others who are waiting to
hear that voice, to share the glories of heaven and live forever with them,
where we will never have to say goodbye!
In closing I'd like to share a poem that I wrote when my grandfather died,
because it really describes the feelings in my heart right now.
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Prepare to Meet Thy God!*
Another life has come and gone,
And now the years keep going on.
But the end is near, I know it's true?
Eternal glories keep shining through.
Oh how I long for our home above,
To learn the story of redeeming love,
To hear the glorious angels sing,
And see the wonders of Christ our King!
There'll be no death, no sorrow or pain
Not even a trace of sin will remain!
Our love for God will forever be full
As we know we've reached our heavenly goal.
Have we, dear friends, given our all?
Are we ready to answer our Father's call?
Do more than read God's Word and pray.
We must search and strive for Him each day!
Put away the sins that seem so sweet
And daily listen at Jesus feet.
Lord, you have promised our strength to be,
Help us take our cross and follow Thee.
Kristina Reeve (written June, 2000)
*Amos 4:12
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