A better day...

I was met once again by the God of all comfort.  The Memorial was an amazing tribute to a life well lived.  A young man who loved well.  Each of his 5 siblings spoke, his wife as well.  As we wept and laughed hysterically (James Banez was quite the character) my favorite was his younger sister Charity sharing that if James were here he would just roll his eyes at all of our tears because all he ever wanted to do was make us laugh.  James modeled a deep faith and personal conviction but tried to  not take life too seriously.  He knew when he got married 10 years ago that their future in work, ministry and missions was not going to yield much money and he promised his young bride "that he would always make $20,000 a year and eventually buy a motorhome."  He was very bright and for one of his part time jobs did financial planning.  His young widow Brenda also a graduate from Dallas Theological Seminary has 3 kids under 6 years old and a 4th on the way (James or Jamie).  Friends and Family have established a

"James Banez Memorial Fund" where 100% will go directly to help Brenda in this difficult time.  The Evangelical Christian Credit Union is managing this fund.  (955 W Imperial Highway Brea Ca. 92821-3815) If you could give anything, it would mean a lot to me.  I will keep you updated on Brenda for I believe that God has great plans for her.

Thank-you! 

Comments

[Craig Miller]

Dear friend,
I do not know you, but I served with James and Brenda in Brazil, and can tell you that the passion that they lived their lives with was one that could only come from the Lord. James was my daughter's teacher in the MK school in Belém, and we have great memories of time spent together in two areas of Brazil. His life, sacrifice, and commitment to the Lord are ineradicably imprinted on my daughters' soul. We too are anxious as well to see James at the Gates. Love in Jesus,

Craig Miller
Missionary with CrossWorld
Preparing for the Canary Islands of Spain

[Jeanine]

Dear Pati,

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of James. James was my youth pastor during his days in Hawaii. I'd really like to share my condolences with Brenda, but have no way to get in touch with her.

Is it better to give her some time grieving? Would it be ok to send her a card?

In any case, I was grieved to hear of his passing but am glad that the pastor who told us to always bring our Bibles to church is with the Lord right now.

May the God of all comfort, comfort you in this time of need.