Within the last 3 months, 2 rather popular christian leaders have experienced the death of a child.
Greg Laurie's son, Christopher, 34, died in a car crash this past week, July 24, 2008. Steven Curtis Chapman's daughter, Maria Sue Chapman, 5, died in May from an incident at their home also involving an automobile. I watched the Maria Chapman family memorial service and was greatly encouraged and inspired by the manner in which the family laughed, smiled, and continued to sing praises to God, in spite of this loss.
I just heard Greg Laurie give a speech at his church this past Sunday, just 3 days after the loss of his son, and he offered these words regarding the loss of his son. He started off by saying, "I couldn't think of any place I'd rather be today than at church, worshiping the Lord."
Then later said "I've said, 'Lord, you choose for me' and He made this choice. And I say, "He does all things well. And I give glory to God. If I could, I'd have him (my son) back in a moment. I want to put my arms around him; there are things I want to say to him, but I'll see him again."
Lord, You choose for me.
Every one we see, He has made. His timing is always perfect. He is to praised...no matter what.