We would not bring you back again to us,

Brave Soldiers of Redemption's bloody Cross,

But wish for yesterday, we often do

As we remember you and mourn our loss.

Churches which you served yet love, work, and live.

You would be proud of them if you were here.

The truth which you preached so powerfully,

To them, has been the answer to all fear.

We remember yet the lessons which you taught,

And how they filled our hearts with Heaven's light.

We remember how they moved us to obey,

Firmly, to take our stand for truth and right.

Today, we reap rich fruit from seed you sowed:

True products of your brave and noble fight.

We remember the sacrifices which you made

That we might darkness flee and walk in light.

And so, by reason of your "work of faith,"

The "love" that made "your labor" true,

The "patient hope" that made you persevere.

We praise our Lord! as we remember you.

[Written in memory of the many great preachers of the "Ancient Gospel" whom I have known, heard, and loved. Based on Paul's statements: "We give thanks to God al-ways for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God our Father" (1 Thess. 1:2, 3).]

Guardian of Truth XL: 8 p. 11
April 18, 1996