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Just over a year ago I lost a very good friend, Frank
Andreus. My friendship with Frank spanned only three years, but in that time,
God used not only Frank’s life, but also Frank’s illness and death to teach me several
valuable life lessons.
Frank was a man of strength, integrity, steadfastness, loyalty,
and faith. Frank lived life to the fullest, grasping the opportunities God presented.
Many of his choices required great courage in the face of fear—whether it was
flying helicopters in Viet Nam, serving as a strategist for Homeland Security
following 9-11, or staring down the throat of a dragon named Cancer.
Some might think Frank’s years as a Colonel in the Air Force
shaped his character. Not true. Frank’s character shaped those around him, not
only in the Air Force but in his family, friendships, church and civic groups. Knowing
and losing Frank in so short a period of time brought to light several truths
from God’s Word.
- “You don't know what will happen tomorrow. What is life? You are a mist that is seen for a moment and then disappears.” James 4:14
- “Make the most of your opportunities . . .” Ephesians 5:16-18
- “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or terrified. The Lord God, will be with you.” 1 Chronicles 28:20
- “Fight the good fight for the Christian faith. Take hold of everlasting life to which you were called and about which you made a good testimony in front of many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:12
Several summers Frank and Cheryl hosted what they called “Cousins’
Camp”, where they gathered their grandchildren together for a week with just
Grandma and Grandpa. Dick and I loved the idea and couldn’t wait to try it
ourselves. But busyness and circumstances pushed those plans to the back burner
of life.
When Frank developed cancer and then went to be with Jesus so
soon after his complete retirement, I realized that precious time with family
shouldn’t be put off. So, when the opportunity arose to spend extra special
time with our grandchildren this summer, Dick and I grabbed those weeks with
both hands.
Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude to God for His
gifts to us of the available time, good health, and adequate finances to do
this. We so appreciate that our kids readily volunteered to do what needs to be
done to make it work. And we thank our grandkids for their excitement and willingness
to come stay with Nana and Pap Pap for an extended visit, without their parents.
I also am thankful God brought Frank and Cheryl into Dick’s
and my life. God opens our eyes to His truths in many ways—through His Word, through
our friendships, and through the fine example of his saints.
Which of the Scriptures God brought to life through my
friend speaks loudest to your current situation?
Many blessings!
Pam©2014 Pamela D. Williams
