In Memory of John Smith
Last week we lost a great man in our fishing community. John was not only a loving husband and father, and one of the best fishermen around – John was a true disciple of God. His mission in life was to find and bring out the good in everyone, even when others could not see it. He listened, helped, and touched the lives of so many people.
John never made it about himself. He always reminded others that only Jesus can truly change your life. John lived as a walking testimony of what it means to be a disciple of Christ.
I feel blessed for knowing him. Many days I saw John reading his Bible. His Bible was almost always open waiting for him. He knew that God speaks to you through His Word and John made sure he was always listening to His voice.
I was blessed to overhear John on the phone with his wife and family. Even while away working, he always made time for them, guiding and supporting them in daily life.
I was blessed to overhear conversations he had with people who were struggling. John was a pillar of hope, always pointing people back to Jesus.
Most of all, I am blessed because John changed my life. His example of living daily for Christ has made me a better Christian, a better husband, and a better father. He helped me through some of my own personal struggles and showed me, by his own actions, what dedicating your life to Jesus is all about.
Today I have peace knowing John is kneeling before Jesus, receiving his eternal rewards. There is no doubt where John is, and there is no doubt about his dedication to lead others to Christ.
If you do not know Jesus – or have drifted from the faith that you once had – please commit your life to Christ today. This was John’s greatest desire, and I believe that even through his passing many will continue to come to know our Savior.
Jesus said in John 16:33,
“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
If you want Jesus in your heart, please reach out to me and I will help you take the first steps. Or you can reach out to another Christian or a church near you to get baptized and give your life to Him.
John’s life was a living testimony, and his legacy continues in each of us who were touched by his faith. May we honor him by following the Savior he loved so deeply.
Thomas Newman mailto:thomasnewman@ncfish.org
