Hello Folks,
     Here we are in the month of June and it summer is just a matter of days away from us.  One of the facts of getting older is that time seems to run past us as a furious rate.  I can remember my parents talking about how fast time goes by and I find myself echoing their words now that I have had the privilege of living over 60 years.
     This past week a very good friend went on to be with the Lord.  Her name was Willie Heberer.  Willie was 75 years of age and had been beseiged with cancer.  When Ruth and I pastored in Pekin, Il she and her husband, Earl, came to the Lord on Oct. 26, 1980.  What friends they were to us.  When Ruth and I went to Pastor's Fellowship in Kentucky she would watch our kids.  My children have wonderful memories of her and Earl.  We spent time with them, laughed and mourned with them.  Now, she has gone on to be with the Lord and her time on this earth is over.  But praise be to God anyone who will serve Jesus can have the privilege of seeing her and Earl again.  Friends, cannot be overestimated!  She was a true gift from God for me and Ruth.
     I wonder if you have friends like that?  I pray that you do and if you do not then you should call on God to enable that to take place.  What a joy it is to have people you can celebrate life with and hold close in your heart.
     Another one of my friends from Pekin is Jess Glidewell.  He is now about 72 years of age and is battling cancer.  I have known him since about March of 1980.  My family has eaten at his house so many times that I think he could have used us as a tax deduction.  His family is dear to me as well and I am praying that God continue to give healing to his body.  It is my understanding that he has recently come to the Lord for salvation so I have assurance that I will be able to see him in glory when that time comes.
     Is it not strange but the older we grow it is not uncommon to see our friends and loved ones leave this world.  Since that is true we should be prepared to live in eternity with Christ and with them.  I wonder if you are ready?

Have a great day,

HGRudd