My brother, Joel, is one of my heros. He has been a minister of the gospel for almost 30 years. He is currently the Sr. Pastor of First Christian Church in Langley, OK.
We come from a long line of preachers. Our grandfather, dad, uncles and a bunch of cousins are all preachers. God has greatly blessed so many in our family with the ability to preach - the charisma to lead - and the ability to touch people's hearts for Jesus Christ.
As talented as are many in our family, as big as the churches they pastor, I think that my brother is the most truly spiritual of the bunch.
And, he is a GREAT dad, who very much loves his children. Joel was divorced when his 4 children were still very young and he raised all 4 of them. I'm sure he is not a perfect Dad, nor are they perfect children, but I now he always did (and still does) his best and they are all turning out pretty well, with families and kids of their own.
One year ago, today, Joel's 20 year old son, James (everybody called him "Spudd") Daniel Rutherford, died in a car wreck.
Joel and James were SO close! As close as any father and son could be.
More than 850 were at James' memorial service. I had the very great privilege of doing the service. He was a great young man - greatly loved.
I know that this year has been so hard on Joel - and that today, must be especially so.
I love you, Joel!
You are in my prayers!
You are my hero!
Jimmie
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