Bobby and I have been enjoying a few days here in San Antonio, Texas. We’re getting ready to leave here in a few minutes for a very early Friday morning arrival back home. Though we haven’t really loved the weather it has been great to spend time with his family and that we were able to come to our friend’s memorial service Wednesday. It was overwhelming to see pictures of all four of the family members and hear friends and family get up and share memories and characteristics they cherished in all four of them. It was a sad time of loss and sorrow but there was a distinct focus on the reality of where our friends are now, worshipping in the presence of the Lord.

After the service about thirty students from the Master’s College students came back to the Blakey’s home for dinner and fellowship together. I was so encouraged when one of the guys picked up Ben’s guitar and led the group in worship. People prayed and cried as we sang the bridge of “Blessed Be Your Name” which says, “You give and take away, You give and take away. My heart will choose to say, Lord, blessed be Your name.” These words have taken on a whole new meaning as we mourn the loss of our friends. Every song seemed to have taken on new relevance as we worshiped the God who is enthroned on high and ruling over all circumstances in the lives of men. The song that struck me the deepest says, “My stronghold, My Savior, I will not be afraid at all. My stronghold, My Savior, I will not be moved.” This song is adapted from Psalm 62: