I was very sorry to read in the newspaper about the death of your wife, Ruth. From all I've read, she must have been a remarkable woman, and I know you'll miss her very much. You and your family are in my prayers. — G.J.

Thank you for your concern and your prayers. Yes, I will miss her very much (as will all our family), but we rejoice that she is now safely home in heaven, where "There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain" (Revelation 21:4).

Ruth was the most incredible woman I have ever known. She was a spiritual giant, whose unparalleled knowledge of the Bible and commitment to prayer were a challenge and inspiration to all who knew her. She was a gentle, smiling and kind person whose primary goal was to live for Christ and reflect His love. If anyone in our community had a need, she always was there to help.

She also was a wonderful mother. Her task wasn't easy since I was away from home so much, but she handled our children with both love and wise discipline. She felt it was her calling, and without her willingness to bear the major responsibility for raising our children, my work simply would not have been possible. She was full of fun also; our children all knew that life was never dull with Ruth around!

The Bible says, "A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies" (Proverbs 31:10). Those words perfectly describe Ruth. Although I will miss her more than I can possibly say, I rejoice that someday soon we will be reunited in the presence of the Lord she loved and served so faithfully. Is your hope in Him?