We give thanks to God always
for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our
God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in
our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3
Michael Ellsessar was an athlete whose own school was
so small he ended up playing varsity sports at three different high schools. A
good athlete, he was also involved in church activities and community
organizations.
All things being said, Ellsessar was a fine young man,
the kind of all-round, good kid you hope your child will become. This explains,
in part, why he is going to be missed.
It's true. Ellsessar is no longer with us. A few weeks
ago he was killed while playing a varsity football game. His was a freak
accident that happened when he was tackled after having caught a pass.
After the hit, Ellsessar got up, collapsed, and even
the EMTs couldn't revive him.
The doctors said Ellsessar had a better chance of
dying from a lightning strike than he did dying this way. Even so, he is dead.
Thinking back upon the pain he's endured these last
weeks, John, Ellsessar's father said, "Hug your kids. Keep them close, and watch
out for them." Then the father added this: "No parent deserves to bury their
16-year-old son. It is devastating."
John Ellsessar's advice is wise. Too often people stay
tight-lipped and don't share or show how they feel with those they love. Then
the day comes when it is too late for anything to be said.
But there's another thing John Ellsessar mentioned. It
is that last line: "No parent deserves to bury their son. It is devastating."
Our Heavenly Father would agree. After all, He didn't deserve to watch His Son
die on Calvary's cross for a lost world, and Jesus didn't deserve to die for a
race that had rejected Him.
Jesus didn't deserve death, but I am thankful He gave
His life for my salvation. His undeserved death has brought about undeserved
salvation for countless millions.
And that includes Michael Ellsessar. Jesus died an
unfair death so he might live, and that is comfort for his father and all who
mourn.
Thank the Lord He gives us His grace and not the
justice we deserve.
THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, for having given Your Son's
life to procure my forgiveness, You have my enduring thanks. For His sacrifice
and Your love, accept my unending gratitude. In all I do may I reflect to others
what You have given me. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Pastor Ken Klaus Lutheran Hour Ministries http://www.lhm.org/ all rights reserved; not to be duplicated without permission.
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