Final words

Yesterday Jo and I attended a funeral service in Launceston at the Pilgrim Uniting Church. The service was held for a man by the name of Dr. Russell Bushby. Russell died just one day after his 84th birthday. For many years he served as a missionary doctor in India. In later years he preached over 2000 sermons as a lay preacher in the Methodist/ Uniting Church. His whole life was poured out in sacrificial service to the Lord. Russell knew he had only hours to live. Just before he died he asked for a pen and wrote out some words he would like shared at his funeral service. This is what he wrote:



My last word to you all

Dear friends,

It has been my privilege to know and experience the goodness and grace of God for many years. My decision to follow Jesus was made in this Church. It was the most important and best decision I ever made. I have proved God's faithfulness and love over my lifetime. It has given me purpose and meaning and it has been my privilege and delight to serve God in some small way.

In Psalm 34 we read: '“Taste and see that the Lord is God, blessed is the person who trusts in Him– for those who fear God love God'.

I want to say how valuable it is to have a personal faith in God– I commend it to you. If you do not know God's forgiveness of your sin and know His peace and know and plan for you life I strongly urge you to do something about it and accept the kind offer God extends to you.

'Taste and see the Lord is good.' How true, how very true! Such a commitment will be better than any insurance policy or superannuation you could take out. I challenge anyone who has not thought about it seriously to do so and accept God'’s generous offer that he extends to you.

With my love to you all,

Russell