Family,
Today and tomorrow we get to meet many of you, and get reacquainted with old friends and even family we have not seen in awhile. Please know how much you have blessed us through this journey. Few are afforded the kind of support we've had and we do know that. We are nervous, and even a little bit scared, but rest in the knowledge that with Jesus in the boat, we can relax, for He commands the wind and the waves.
Please, when you come through and see many pictures of BJ's life, let us know if you were a blogger...especially if we do not know you. We want to meet you and know your connection, even if you were the friend of a friend of a friend...or perhaps stumbled across his site. There are no accidents in the kingdom of God. Things happen for a reason, and we want to extend our thanks to each of you.
Things are set to have audio access from this site (as far as we've been informed) for Friday's Celebration. We do wish to celebrate. Beej told his friend Jack not long ago that when he died, he wanted a party with loud (worship) music, not a lot of tears. I trust he'll forgive us the tears. We do miss him.
I believe he is walking and talking not only with his grandpa, but with Jesus, Paul, Peter, and others. We do not have to guess who is doing most of the talking!
Know that we love you,
Beej's dad
posted by Pray for BJ @ 8:45 AM
130 comments
130 Comments:
Brent, Deanna, Lauren & Whitney -
We can not wait to see you all today - we miss your faces terribly. We went to Meijer last night, bought some supplies and made Andrew a "prayforbj.com" t-shirt to wear today. (Although it is black - we couldn't have someone thinking we had a baby girl:)) We look forward to celebrating Beej's life with you and hugging you!!!!
Love you lots!
Jes, Todd & Andrew Y.
ALthough I will not be able to attend, I will be praying for you all and continue praising God for the wonderful life BJ lived and the lives that he is still touching.
April C.
Tx
I cannot be there in person with you. But, I am praying for you, and I look forward to listening to the celebration online!
I will be wearing pink in Xenia, OH!
In His love,
Carrie G.
Xenia, OH
Higgins Family,
You are in my prayers daily. I am praying for a gullywash of prayers for family. Thank you for B.J. journal entries. He was a wonderful young man.
Praying that will not cease,
Tandy in Denton, Texas
Praying for tomorrow...
Emily Reagan
your strength and hope continues to serve in the God-glorifying vein that BJ started. may God continue to bless you abundantly - above anything you ever could have anticipated. love *kim
Though I can't attend, I will be "celebrating" BJ's life from afar. You'll are still in my prayers, as well as many on the HLG Campus.
Much Christian Love,
Andrew Macejak
Sorry I cannot attend, but I will be remembering and listening to Not A God from HLG. Still praying for you all.
Rachel Burkholder
HLG
Brent,Deanna,Lauren,and Whitney
I just want to say how much i miss BJ but i am looking forward to celebrating his life and i know he is in a better place.
Tyler Waddles
i dont know u but im a good friend of the leaf family .. i will be praying contiually for ur family as ur going through this hard time as i know many others are doing here in Kansas City.
sara
Dear Brent, Deanna, Lauren, and Whitney,
We send our continued love, support, prayers to you over this past week. We are grateful that our God is so very big...that He is everywhere and available at anytime of day. As the Potter's are spread out this week, in CA, OK, IN, IL, and AL, we have been so blessed by this site and for the opportunity to pray for and with you on all accounts. Just a personal note (Ann). The past few years have been different for our family and challenging. Bussiness of life has sometimes developed a distance in my relationship with the King. He never moved...I did. I have found Him again...I am closer to Him now than ever before...I credit it to seeking Him on your behalf over these past six weeks, discovering Him in the life of His Word and the celebration of worshipping Him when I didn't know how to pray. I sensed a unity with fellow christians, for all over the world, when He would wake me at 4:00 a.m. to pray for BJ and I would find others called to pray at the exact same time. I will miss BJ, I remember him as a young boy, but have been blessed beyond measure to know him through his journal as a wonderful young man. We continue to pray for you, trusting our God to hold you through this time. Steve will be there on Friday to embrace you not only on his part, but on the part of his "girls" as well. God Bless, May the Lord be with you, may His face shine upon you, may He bring you peace and comfort as only the Father can. With great Love, Ann, Steve, Kelly, Kendall, and Allison and Zack
I wish I were able to be with you tomorrow. Know that the Taylor's will be wearing pink in Riga, Latvia in BJ's honor. I will tune in to the audio connection.
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye Heavenly Host! Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost! Amen.
Christina
Thank you for sharing your journey with us. My family and I are friends of the Leaf family (Pleasant Valley Baptist Church-Kansas City, MO). You have been close in thought and prayer and we will continue to lift you up.
Susan M.
I wish I could be there in person. I will be praying for you, especially tomorrow. Love in Christ.
Kailey <><
I've been praying for you all in this; I'm truly sorry for the loss, even though God is working great things through it. BJ has made an amazing impact on the world, even through the end.
God bless you.
-Marcia Maxson
Hannibal, MO
PS. I will be wearing pink tomorrow!
My prayers are still with you and your family. Unfortunately, I am unable to attend. Know that you have touched my life and that I am also celebrating the life of our brother! Tara Case will be hugging you for me. You have been such a blessing to me and many. Thank you for everything.
our church, Hazelwood Baptist, had B.J. on our prayer list and will continue to pray for your family. We know BJ through friends of my daughter, Sara Lawrence at MOnrovia High School.
I'm truly sorry I can't be there in person. I've never met you or BJ, but the examples of your lives through your ordeal and his journal entries... inspiring, life-changing and eye opening! I thank you all for sharing this experience.
And you're right, I didn't stumble to this site by accident. The Lord knows what each of us need. Glory to His name!
My prayers continue to be with you.
Elizabeth Ferrer
Greentown, PA
i will be there tonight and tomorrow and i know it will be hard to celebrate but thats what bj wanted but its still hard not to cry. I do miss him. Hang in there God never wastes a hurt including this one.
Marissa Balog
Dear Higgins family,
Though I will not be able to make the services, I do very much intend to make the video webcast. I want u to know that you are in my prayers and I know that today is not going to be extremely easy for you, but remember and I know its easy for me to say, but remember soon and very soon we are going to get to see BJ again. I wish i could be there and give all ya'll hugs and words of encouragement. I will hopefully get to wear my bj.com t-shirt tomorrow when it hopefully gets here. Thank you again for all the things that you have shared with us along BJ's journey. We truely do appreciate that. God Bless you today and I pray for peace. Please let us know how everything went for those of us that can't be there with you today.
We love you guys,
montgomery family
My dear family in Christ,
We were praying for you last night in bible study here in San Diego, CA and I just wanted to send some of my heart to you today - if I had the money, I would've not hesitated to fly in today to celebrate with you! I keep thinking of the account in the bible about God leaving the flock for the one... and in this situation God used the one to impact the whole rest of the flock in a very POWERFUL way! We serve an AMAZING Lord and I cannot help but PRAISE HIM with you!
To my family of bloggers - may we continue to fight in this GOOD FIGHT together in UNITY with one heart and one voice! There is MUCH work to be done in the Youth of this generation - the question is - what part are each of you going to play in it? I encourage you to ask the Lord - where shall I go? What shall I do to serve a dying people? In this nation or abroad, let us take His light and His love into our daily missions field and trust that one person plants, others water and it is the Lord who multiplies! But, we are CALLED to pray on behalf of the saints & to be a part of the great commission!!! JESUS LIVES my friends - the tomb is EMPTY and the thrown is OCCUPIED!!!
I love you all!!!
Laurel, San Diego
My prayers and thoughts are with you today, tomorrow and for the weeks and months to come. Thank you for sharing from BJ's journals. His faith and wisdom are truly inspiring.
Tammy Harris
Panama City, Florida
I am sure BJ will understand the tears. We celebrate his life, rejoice that he is with our Lord, but we are flesh and blood...we miss him...selfish?...no just human. May God in his infinite Grace and compassion sustain you and give you peace.
Higgins Family,
I am continually praying for you and for tomorrow. Thank you for BJ's journal entries...it's just a glimpse of what a wonderful person he must have been. I wish I could have met him.
Praying in Norman, OK
Sarah
Dear Higgins Family,
We do look forward to this celebration and hope we can meet you in the midst of the large crowd. May you again rest in his peace today. Phillipians 4:7 says "And the peace of God, which trancends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Your in our thoughts and prayers. See ya on Friday! Love The Rice Family
Okc, OK
My 16yo daughter and I hope tobe with you tomorrow for the Celebration.
Still praying....
Brent, Deanna,
You all have been on my mind, since I woke up this morning. I can't wait to see you all this evening. We miss you, and impatiently await your return. My PINK SHIRT is ironed and ready to go, so that I too can join the PINK ARMY tonight! I am constantly praying for you and your family and can't wait to celebrate with you tonight. Me and My pink shirt have BEAR Hugs ready for you! See you tonight!
Love,
Your Friend!
Matt Littell
As I looked up the website today I was deeply saddened to learn of BJ's passing. I do not know you at all but have felt the love you have for Bj and the love you have for our Lord through your incredible posts. I can remotely relate to your pain as My nephew was killed in Iraq a little over two years ago. It is a difficult , sometimes seemingly impossible journey but your incredible faith and friends will help. May the the God of peace lift you and your family up and sustain you. My deepest sorrow for your loss. I know you find comfort in knowing you will see Bj again someday.
In His Care,
Kelly Marlborough
Lees Summit, Missouri
You all are just an amazing family.
I just wanted to tell you that!
The girls and I will see you this afternoon and all of us will be there tomorrow. We have missed you and are still lifting each of you up in our prayers. Love you guys.
Love, Nancy
Dear Higgins,
I just want you to know that I am wearing pink as well as Keara. My mom is kinda wearing pink in her hospital gown. We are thinking and praying for you as you face these next few days.
Carol,Keara,and Edith
Maryville, Tn
Hey Higgins,
I stayed up til 3 this morning working on a tribute video for tomorrow's celebration. I've posted it on my web site; if you want to see it before the service you can email me and I'll send you the address.
It was done with a myriad of mixed feelings, as I know that the images will be hard for you all to see, since all of this so fresh. I feel as though it is rubbing salt in your open wounds. But I also hope that you will treasure it in years to come, as the wounds heal and your pain is enveloped in His peace.
I had a hard time concentrating on anything Monday, as I'm sure many others did. This is what came spilling out.
Open Hands
Luke 9:23
September 26th, 2005
We hold the things You give us in open hands.
In Your wisdom, You add and take away.
You are Soveriegn God, I'm just a man,
So I struggle to understand what You took today.
Sacrifice is so easy to talk about.
We're all willing to give up things material.
But when a precious life is what You require,
Our fingers close; the sacrifice is real.
So we look to You for strength to hold our hands open anew
Through the pain of sacrifice, we take up our cross with You.
As we endure this life's burdens we'll place our faith above,
Trusting it's all for good, we're resting in Your love.
You paid for all our sins with open hands.
You gave Your all, not holding back a thing.
And as the nails pierced Your flesh, You gave your life.
Atonement could only come through the blood of the King.
You could have called it off, and taken over.
Decided that the pain wasn't worth the deal.
Closed Your hand into a fist, delivered justice!
But You knew Your sacrifice had to be real.
Your compassion gave You strength to hold Your hands open for Your bride.
Through the pain of sacrifice, You took up Your cross and died.
As we endure this life's burdens we'll place our faith above,
Trusting it's all for good, we're resting in Your love.
This fallen world at times seems way too broken.
Too crazy for mortal men to comprehend.
When a life lived for Jesus is taken early
Then we look to You and ask, "Why did it end?"
So much could have been accomplished by one so faithful,
So many souls from Satan he would steal.
But as we open up our fingers and let him go,
The pain tells us this sacrifice was real.
So we look to You for strength, our hands held open through this loss
Through the pain of sacrifice, we humbly take up our cross.
As we endure this life's burdens we'll place our faith above,
Trusting it's all for good, we're resting in Your
Thank you all, for your witness and your Christian integrity. I've heard it said that you find out what people are made of when they are squeezed. You all have been squeezed pretty hard these last few weeks. All I've seen come out is Jesus. You all are awesome and inspirational.
Jesus loves you, and so do we.
The Davids
I am with you today in spirit, in prayer and in meditation.
"Be still and know that I AM God."
Thank you.
Brent , Deanna , Lauren and Whitney,
I know today will be tough for you but the thing is the LORD is standing right there with you . The Lord will only give you love that you can't imagine from Him and those who love you . Will be seeing you this afternoon.
Indianapolis
In Jesus name I rebuke the bloggers that are invading this site with garbage.(ie 9:51 posting)
Lord, You know who these individuals are and I am asking that you would send one of your faithful servants to witness to them. Thank you for what you are about to accomplish. In Jesus name I pray. Amen
Will be thinking of you all today and lifting you up in prayer. You are truly an amazing family and BJ was an amazing young man. Your family has truly touched so many lives. God bless you!
Chicago, IL
I will not be able to make it tomorrow but I will be there in Spirit and Prayer. Something I came across today...two scriptures.
1)"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world" -John 16:33
2)"Carry each other's burdens and in this way you will fulfill the Law of Christ." -Galations 6:2
Today and tomorrow, I pray that I may take your family's load of burdens. I pray that they rest on my shoulders and the shoulders of other's praying for you. May tomorrow be the celebration of a life well lived. We've never met, but I love you all and will cherish the experience of being a part of your family.
Amanda Braisted
Indiana
Higgins Family,
Although I can't be there with you today or tomorrow, I will be praying for all of you!! BJ has been such an inspiration to me and many others to live just like God wants us too!! I know these next two days will be tough but also filled with joy knowing that BJ is not suffering anymore.
Wearing my pink in Dayton, OH
~Amber
What an inspiration BJ's life has been to me since hearing about him. Praise God through all circumstances and I know God is working through this experience. Thoughts and prayers with you tomorrow. I celebrate with you the life of an incredible young man.
In Him,
Katie
You will be in my prayers today, tomorrow, and always. I know this will be tough, but Jesus will be there to carry you when you are falling. Just keep your eyes and hearts focused on Him and the wonderful place your son is, and how he is still working in lives on the earth. Your precious son will never be forgotten. Though not able to attend, I send my love, hugs, and I will be wearing my shirt today and tomorrow. I love you guys, even though we have never met. God bless you! And I will be listening tomorrow.
Linda Anderson
Willows, California
Brent, Deanna, Lauren and Whitney,
My heart goes out to you. You will be mentioned in my prayers always, for I know that the journey does not end here. Your son's and brother's ministry will continue to bless many.
Until all have heard,
Chrissy
I hope you'll forgive me, I'll be the one that can't stop crying. I've already started. Love you guys!
I wish i could met you all, but living in cali doesnt really help. I pray God gives you strengh throughout the day and that He reminds you that Bj is in a better place. Continue to praise God even when your heart breaks He's there to help.
Kaitlin
Thank you for continuing to bless our lives and hearts. Trev and I are planning on being there tonight. BJ's reach was so far and even opened some conversation about Christ with some of my very own family. Thank you for this site and for allowing us to peek into the life of such an amazing young man. AND for setting such a high standard for fellow parents to live up to. I know my life has been changed...God Bless
Higgins Family:
Will see you this afternoon. Still lifting all of you up to our Lord and Savior.
Praise the Lord,
Ed, Carmel
I'm sorry we won't be able to attend the celebration on Friday, but we're looking forward to seeing all of you tonight. We miss you all so much!
Angie and Matt Esser
FBC Mooresville
I am so depressed lately without BJ. I keep praying that I might again experience the happiness of BJ but nothing helps. It's so bad lately that I think I would pay any price there is just to experience BJ even for a few minutes. I know that's wrong and selfish but I know that Jesus in his ultimate Love would understand my pain.
well i just ran across this site from an xanga. and i will tell you that not too long ago i lost my brother. and i want you to know that the pain does get easier but living without him does not. i think bout him constantly, and i just wanted you to know that my prayers are with you along with God. he is carrying you at this time of need.
I will be praying for you all. You had such an amazing boy/man there. He was so willing to do a mission trip and his words from his journels are amazing for a gentleman of that age. Your testimonies have especially been an inspiration to me. Of course I never knew any of this until the illness struck. But your faith in God and your walk with Him has inspired me. I grieve for you for your loss but celebrate because of the victory. I will pray for you in the days to come as you deal with your loss. I have kids the same age and can't imagine what you have to face. But knowing Beej is in heaven after a life of work well done is a comfort. God bless.
Karan - Monrovia, CA
I never met BJ but I knew what kind of Godly individual he was through some friends of mine that met him at D-now as his leader. I've been reading this blog the last couple days and sharing it with my friends, because your son's life and your family's faith to God is so refreshing to the Christian. This is the second time this year that I knew or knew about, rather for BJ, that passed at away under the age of 20. BJ's life will be a constant reminder to me to never put hope in a tomorrow that is not guaranteed but to daily seek Christ and glorify Him. My love and prayers go out to your family and loved ones that are traveling.
Love in Christ,
Mark Lester
i know that bj's heart was to see God's kingdom come to a whole. he lived and died for the glory of our God and Father. he would have it no other way then to worship that father. so i can promise you this one thing, i will be worshiping tommrow.
i won't be able to be there with you, for i have a ministry here that i must stay back for, but i know bj would want it that way, for the Lord to be preached and i am comforted by the fact that he is not angry at me for missing for i am doing the Lord's work here.
but, i will be worshiping the Lord tommrow in bj's memory, you can count on that.
with the purest of Christ's love,
michelle baumgardner
HLG
Dear family,
I will continue to lift you up to the Father in prayer. Your precious son has made such an impact on my spiritual life, thank you so much for allowing us to share in this journey. May God continue to bless you especially through these difficult times without your son's physical presence. What an amazing young man God graced you with.
Leslie Pippin
cloud of witnesses
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Dear Higgins Family,
You don't know me, and BJ hasn't met me before, but God has brought me to this site for a reason. I've been reading BJ's life and you just never know the impact his young life has done to me. He is such a great example of a true Christian and my prayer is that many more young people will come to know Christ like BJ.
I'm sorry to hear that BJ is gone here on earth, yet I'm glad that he's now celebrating with the angels and with His Master. No more pain, no more sufferings, just exaltation!
May peace and strength be with all of you who are dear to BJ's heart.
In Christ's love,
Gloria T
Los Angeles, California
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Higgins
I jacob mackenzie whom had known bj for a year am very sorry for the loss of your son but i also am sorry that I could not come in person to see you in your time of need. However Bj was the best friend I have had because he had alway gave me religious advice and what i should do. BJ is a good friend and and even better follower of the lord almighty
With deepest grief
your friend
JacobMackenzie
I wish I could be there to meet you. However, your cousin Vickie is going to be there and I just hugged her yesterday so please ask her to pass on a "Tina" hug to you all. That's a nice, strong hug--no patting but a real good bear squeeze that lasts at least 5 seconds!
Lauren and Whitney,
My husband lost his sister when she was 21 and he was 25. It was a very difficult time for him he later told me b/c so much attention is of course paid to the parents who never want to lose a child. Know though that you are being prayed for fervently as well. Know that you each have touched so many on this site with your words, hearing about your singing to BJ, just through the love of Christ that you have shared with all of us as well. It may seem you get lost in the shuffle these next few days, but you are not lost, you are not alone. I will be praying for God to help you through these difficult days.
I think BJ will understand the tears, because although he is in God's paradise, he is probably crying along with you seeing how you all hurt and feeling the loss himself of not being with all of you. May you feel his loving presence in your hearts strongly this day and tomorrow.
Blessings, Tina--Cedarburg
I can't be with you today, will be traveling in the car during the Memorial Service . . . but will be praying and praising with you.
Know that through this most difficult thing you have ever had to go through time, that thousands are praying constantly for you. You are loved!
Cheryl, Hilliard, Ohio
To BJ's family,
To BJ's family
We too lost a son about a year ago. We are so very sorry for your loss. The website you created is an incrediblr testimony to Bj and your faith. Your faith will bring others closer to God, I know. I will be praying for you.
We are not able to be there in person, but know that we are praying for you and with you in spirit.
We will be listening Friday.
The Fazzini's
Youngstown, OH
I didn't know about Bj's death until today when I finally had the chance to check in on you all. I am sorry for your loss but rejoicing in the fact that your son is dancing on the streets of Gold and meeting his Jesus face to face. God Bless you all! I will be thinking of you these next couple of days!
Josh Suiter
New Albany, Indiana
Was directed to this site by emails from Mercy Me. x
I just want you to know that Brent was constantly in my prayers, as well as members of my church, Verde Valley Christian Church and also the Sedona United Methodist Church. I have shared parts of BJ's journal with members of my prayer group. You see, he has already touched many lives. How very prowd you must be to have a son so dedicated to the Lord. It was through my son, Craig, who also does outreach ministry with Crosswinds Community Church in Carmel, that told me about your son. I followed his progress daily in prayer.
May God's blessing be with you for giving Him such a loving son. Rest assured he has earned his place in Heaven.
My deepest heartfelt sympthay,
Jacqueline
Sedona, Arizona
Thank you for the assurance to attend. I am one of the bloggers you don't know, but one that was very, very affected by BJ's journey. I will be in line...
God Bless you and your family....
BJ was a true gift to all of us who knew him. One could not meet him without being touched by him. BJ has definitely touched my life and I feel the need to seek the Lord more strongly as a result of my contact with him.
This site that you have maintained has helped so many as we have lived this past few weeks with our own hopes and prayers. It took a while, but once I realized that I wanted BJ to come back to us here on earth, I realized that it was for selfish reasons, for me, not for him.
BJ is just where he should be - I know he will be watching out, talking, and sending us each a message whenever we need him. He definitely is a true disciple - one that has made a sincere difference in my life and in the life of those around me.
I am proud to say that I was able to know BJ for a short time, but one that may make the biggest difference in my life, and for that I am truely grateful.
Kathy Bewley
Monrovia High School
The first thing I noticed about BJ was his love and passion for Christ and the desire of his heart to see everyone around him come to know Christ. I want y'all to know that I have learned tremendously from BJ... I wish I could attend, but me, my roommates, and several of my friends are going to listen to the audio broadcast... we'll be praying for y'all!
Dear Higgins family,
I too will be unable to be with you in body, but will be with you in spirit as you celebrate BJ's life tomorrow. I thank you again for sharing your son with us through all his entries in his journal and through your sharing of stories from his life. I thank God for the testimony that BJ gave for Christ in his life and in his struggle and in his death. Truly God has been glorified and I believe that many have been drawn either to a new or a renewed relationship to Christ through all of this. I know that my faith and commitment to Christ has been challenged by BJ. May tomorrow as you celebrate the presence of God's Spirit encircle you and comfort you. I pray that during tonight, tomorrow, and the next weeks Isaiah 61:3; "and provide for those who grieve in Zion - to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair" come true for you. I also thank you for the way your son BJ touched and positively influenced my daughter Michelle.
In Christ's love,
Milton Baumgardner
Monroe City, MO
My thoughts and prayers have remained with your family over the past couple of weeks. I feel such great pain for your family. The greatest aspect of life is being surrounded by loved ones throughout life and although you know that everyone will ultimately pass, we will all forever be together in Heaven! I can't wait to meet BJ there! You had a wonderful son/brother, you were truly blessed. May God continue to embrace your family. My thoughts and prayers will always be with you.
Love, Laurie (Minnesota)
(Amy and Trevor Harden's sister)
I will be celebrating in Hannibal, Mo with you tomorrow. Love you guys!!!
Kim
Hannibal, Mo
HLG
BJ's life has been an ispiration, I have seen how his life has blessed so many on the HLG campus. Your family has been so strong through all of this, thank you for sharing this journey with all of us.
Jesus is in the boat with you guys! I pray that He'll comfort you and remind you of how much He dearly loves you all. BJ had the right outlook on life. I know that he is celebrating now without any tears. I can't imagine how hard it must be for you all, but I am always praying that the Lord will be so close to you, pouring out His love and comfort. "Hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spririt, whom He has given us. -Romans 5:5 Love and prayers,
atl, ga
Dear Ones,
I am praying for you all today! I will not be able to attend the service, but will be with you in thought and in prayer as you celebrate your beautiful sons life!
I praise God for B.J., he brought us all closer to each other and to GOD! He will always be remembered, his story will be told over and over through out the world. The story of a faithful young man with a very loving soul!
Peace be with you all today, and may God bless you always!
Love in Christ,
Mischel from Bethlehem, PA.
Higgins Family, You are a very blessed Family! I wish I could be there with you guys as you share the life of your son (and brother)
We know you didn't have to, but thank you for provided the audiocast to us. Even though it is a difficult time right now, but i know you will be having the Holy Ghost Party that BJ would have wanted, and if there are lost souls there I pray they all get saved.
Brent, Deanna, Lauren & Whitney You are and will be very blessed by the Lord!
With Lots of Love,
Sabrina Garza
SA,TX
I cannot wait to sing for bj
bf in SC but now back in IN
Higgins',
Your family is in my prayers today.
Though I've only "met" you through this site, I wish I could be there for you in person and celebrate BJ's life with all of you. I will be doing that here in KC and will be lifting you all up to our Lord as well.
Thank you for sharing your life!
Stacy
kansas city
I wish that I could be there tonight and tomorrow to share in your joy and sorrow...I will be celebrating BJ's life in Fl though, and I am looking forward to hearing his memorial service on this website. Thank you for sharing your precious sons life with all of us. He has truly made a differnece in my life, and in so many lives.
Love in Christ,
Cathy
I will be wearing pink tomorrow. In honor of truly a great child of God. I wish I could be there to support your family. You will be in my prayers. When this is all over please don't leave us. We, your brothers and sisters in the Lord want to know how your family is doing in the years to come. We will be here for you.
Pat Davila
New York Long Island
Dear Higgins Family,
Like many others who blog, I have never met your family but have grown to admire you over these past few weeks. I find myself ligering over the site and reading what other's have read. It has been a long time since anything has impacted my life in the way BJ's story has. It has caused me to take a closer look at all of the relationships in my life including my relationship with GOD. I suppose this is what BJ's purpose was on earth...
Thank you for the strength to share his story with us. I greive with you each day and pray for peace in your hearts. You will be on my mind today and tomorrow as you celebrate BJ's life.
God Bless you
Indianapolis, IN
"I believe he is walking and talking not only with his grandpa, but with Jesus, Paul, Peter, and others. We do not have to guess who is doing most of the talking!" Oh so true! I loved that about him! In Peru the first year he went, he was talking to me in the hotel in Piura about how he rambles on and how he needed to make his testimony shorter for the dramas! Though he may have rambled at times, it was a blessing to hear God speak through him and to hear all about what God was teaching him that day.
I'll see you all tomorrow. :)
Ashley Dawn Reagan (peru 04)
Bixby, Oklahoma
Dear higgins family,
I know you are going through a hard time, I wish there was something I could say to make things easier for you!! All I can say is that you arein my prayers! god bless your family!!
Always Arkansas Girl
Higgins family,
I am always praying for your family. I thank you for the posts that you have left on this site. I have never met BJ, but he seems like an amazing person. Through what I have read, I can tell he has touched the lives of many people in his short time here on earth. His story has touched me more than I could have imagined with me not knowing him. You will remain in my prayers. God bless you all.
Samantha K.
Tulsa, Ok
Higgins Family,
I will not be able to come to the celebration but my prayers and the prayers of my friends ar church are with you. May God be ever present in these times...God bless you!
Your sister in Christ,
Tara in Liberty, MO
I live in Fort Wayne and would love to come to the celebration, but my work schedule will not allow it. Please know that you all will be in my thoughts and prayers during this time of emotional rollercoasters.
Barbara Anderson
My goodness, as I sit at my computer, I know you are meeting and greeting many, many people. What a tiresome, but necessary process. I know you are eager to renew acquaintances and meet new friends through this site.
The night you took BJ to St. Vincent's I was at a Bible Study at Tammy H's house and Jeannie told us what was going on. Since then you all have become a part of my life. I've spend far too many minutes of "company" time reading, checking and re-reading. As a result my prayer life has certainly improved. I just find it amazing that through all of this you have taken time to do whatever is necessary to run this blogsite and I am very appreciative that tomorrow I can, in some way be a part of the celebration. I wish I could be there in person but distance will not allow. I'll continue to pray for each of you by name. I know your faith is strong, but we all need the support and love of others....
Susie Gates
Evansville, IN
Whatl a celebration tomorrow will be! The tears will come but keep your chin up and smile for the wonderful son and brother you have shared life with. I will be wearing pink tomorrow just as a statement that I too am celebrating his life. Thank you for sharing your inner most thoughts and feelings as you have gone through this chapter in your life. So many lives have been touched and hearts have been changed. Praise God for His faithful servants. I'll be praying for you to be strong.
For His Glory,
Glenna Scott
Catoosa, OK
i am junior from tcs in sherman, tx. i learned about your son from one of my friend's brother, drew burlingame who went to peru with bj. my speech teacher mrs. may also knew bj too. she read the update everyday in speech class. we have been praying for yall and we will continue to pray. even though i didn't personally know bj, i am sure he was a great kid!! stay strong in christ and know that people are praying deeply for your family!!
-Saranya Sundaram
Sherman, TX
thank you for inviting me (anonymous blogger), to join you in celebrating BJ's life. It was a pleasure to meet the four of you...and as I told my wife, you were all "gentle and loving". I pray for your strength through these trying times...God Bless
Greenfield, Indiana
The testimony of how your family has handled this terrible situation is an inspiration to me and my family. You have represented our Lord with honor and strength in the midst of tragedy. I pray that you will continued to be comforted with the peace that can only come from the Father and continue to shine his light even in the midst of difficult times. My prayers are with you.
God, I'm looking at the clock and realizing that the Higgins aren't checking the site right now. Please carry them through this time as you have so faithfully throughout these days. Surround them with your grace and peace. Help them say and receive right words. For tomorrow, Lord, you know how grieved I've been not to attend. I confess my selfishness and ask You to help me have a right perspective. Allow those of use who can't be present physically to be especially present spiritually and to pour our offerings of prayer out upon Your altar. Let us be the "distractors" who help keep Satan away--let him know absolutely that he has not one tiny part in anything that's said or done tomorrow, God, because You already have the victory! Help all those who participate in any way to experience JESUS lifted high! May Your glory fill the temple, Lord. Bring many to come to know You through this time, oh God--draw just the right people to attend, even if they haven't considered it up until this moment. Help believers to come away from these days with a renewed vision of Your heart for the world along with a renewed passion to tell Your story. We love You, God, and we thank You for Your soverign work. We pray in the great name of Jesus our Savior,
AMEN.
Sending love to Brent, Deanna, Lauren and Whitney. . .and continuing to pray in pink,
Marti and the Pieper Family
Charleston, SC
Brent, Deanna, Lauren & Whitney,
I am sorry I wont't be able to attend BJ's service. I know this is a difficult time for everyone. Going home and seeing his room I know, is very hard. You can only know that he is up in heaven watching over everyone. Your strenght is so amazing. BJ has touched so many lives, in his time on earth. You must be so proud of him.
Love,
Cindy, Emily, Bethie, Brian, & Claire Sum
Zionsville, In
Brent, Deanna, Lauren and Whitney
I am praying you all. It has been a long time since I saw you all last. My dad had been keeping me up to date on BJ's condition. I pray for him and you all every night. I remember sharing a room with him at Mt.Carmel when we went on that mission trip 3 or 4 maybe even 5 years ago I think. I remember learning so much from him in just that little time on that trip. He was a very special person and a warior for crist. He will be missed by all that knew him and all who learned from him such as I did. I will not be able to come on tomorrow but i think my dad will be. I will still be praying for you all and wil have you all on my mind during this hard time for you all.
Ross Schoeller
Carmel, In.
I will be praying for you as you go through this time. I praise God for the life that BJ had in Christ just from that entry of his you posted... it said so much. God be with you in such a time as this....
Emily
Higgins Family,
This journey has truly touched so many lives. I have followed along ever since AweStar published the first e-mail message about BJ. My daughter went on an AweStar Missionary trip this summer and her and her friends have been praying faithfully from Norman OK. Our church here in Texas have been praying as well. Several of us will be celebrating with tears on webcast tomorrow and I will being were my pink prayforbj T-shirt! You and your family will always be a treasured spot in my heart and I will be happy to meet my Christian brothers and sisters in Heaven one day. May God wrap His loving arms around you during these most difficult days.
Helen Daniel
Farmersville TX
I am so deeply touched...my prayers to you all for strength. Thank you for sharing your life and his.
I'm glad to hear that you are able to give BJ a party that he wanted. I can't wait to see his wonderful celebration on your website! I will be wearing my prayforbj.com t-shirt tomorrow and on Saturday. I'm sad I can't be there for the serivces, but please know that BJ affected my life in such a positive way. I would truly have loved to meet him and know him. You are blessed to have had such a wonderful kid! He spread the word to everyone who he thought needed it! If you are ever in California I would be honored to meet you. You remain in my prayers.
Lots of love,
Lauren Szabo
Encinitas,CA
izzygurl1102@aol.com
I wish I could be there! I'll be wearin pink and prayin for you still! love,
-Brittany A.
Peru 04, Uganda 05
To BJ's Friend who says he no longer believes. Please see the blog posted on Sept. 28, Wed. at 7:45pm. Many prayers for you. From someone who cares.
I will not be there but I want you to know that I will be praying for you and wearing pink in Z'ville. You are not forgotten. I hope today and tomorrow bring some healing for you.
i am just so amazed by the higgins family for their strength and faith in God. With all of these mixed emotions they are still strong with the Lord. Bj , even though he was younger than i, impacted my life. He at such a young age knew what it meant to live for God. he is my hero. i will continue to keep praying.
In his name,
Tim Hunter
I am in awe of the strength and beauty and love I read in you entries for Beej. I have only come to know of Beej in the last couple weeks, our daughter had a link on her blogspot which said Pray for BJ. I have been praying for him and am thankful to know he is now in a wonderful place where he is rejoicing in God's Love and he is wrapping his loving arms around all of you that he has left for now. I will be rejoicing and celebrating with you all.......long distance from Port Angeles, Washington. Knowing that you have your strength and faith in God is comforting to all of us, May God Shower You with his Blessings and Love each and every day.
Brent, Deanna & girls,
Thank you so much for sharing BJ's pictures with us. Thank you for putting out the photo albums and letting us share in your family memories. BJ was a handsome young man. Through the years we will think of you guys and be praying for you.
In his loving arms,
Sylvia Manner
Sadly, I will not be able to attend, but since we held a prayer night for him at our church, i have been personally praying for him. He was an incredible impact, and so was your daily blogging! Thank you! The updates on his condition and your belief in God's gifts and grace have really helped me keep my personal faith alive in Christ. Thank you. God Bless!
Dear Brent,
I'm so thankful that God created me so that I am able to laugh and cry at the same time! Your message made me do that tonight.The display of BJ's life and faith at the Memorial Calling was a blessing to our Lord. Yours is a special and beautiful family and I, once again, thank you for including the family of God in this journey.
Love and continued prayers,
Carla S.
To an incredible family:
Our prayers are with you, not just now but for years to come. Bj has touched us in a way that leaves us better than how we were before.What amazing parents you are, both in life and in death.You have such strength and wisdom and grace. You raised such an amazing son.He accomplished more in his first 15 years than most of us do in a lifetime. Thank you for sharing him with us. I can relate to the other bloggers who are depressed for we love BJ like he was one of our own. if i were to ask God "why take Bj now,he is everything thats good, why not take me instead?" he would probably say "Bj is ready,hes accomplished everything i wanted him to do if not more,now i have great things planned for him ahead, the rest of you need a little more work "
Im sorry but i wont be able to attend, im a single mom of two and financially i just cant swing it.Id give my right arm to be there.But something tells me you will feel Bj there as well as the Holy Spirit. We love you. Ill be praying for the Lord to comfort you and I pray everyone will have a safe trip.
In Christ,
Paula
Surely we all are from GOD and to God is our return.
May He Who gives life and death and May He Who accept all prayers, bless the soul of Beloved BJ.
O Lord, without You Who is there to accept our prayer? Who else can bless, since You have all power, we have none.
So accept BJ's soul and grant him among your faithful and grateful servants.
Give peace in the heart of his family. May they have a wonderful reunion in Your presence in the paradise, in Your Kingdom.
Amen!
god be with yall
I'm still praying for you. Think about you often. I'm praising God with you for BJ's life and the impact he made for Jesus all over the world. This has been a truly amazing journey. Thanks for sharing with us. May God surround you with HIs perfect peace as you celebrate BJ tomorrow. Looking forward to someday meeting all of you.
Praying still in NC.
Karen
i am a xangaer... i use it quite a bit but that is not how i found the site about your son. my mom found it. God bless yor wonderful family! its been amazing just reading how strong yall stayed throughout this whole ordeal. i learned alot about tough times. a good verse that might be of help to your family (or chapter i should say) is 2 cor: 4! i must say that when i came across bj's xanga i read it. yor son was an amazing person. at the age of 15 he has accomplised so much for the kingdom. it almost brought tears to my eyes reading it. the things that he had to say were so mature for his age was jaw-dropping. i am only a year older than your son bj, and i kinda raed it and learn from it myself. his mindset, well words just cant describe it. i will continue to pray for your amazing family. God Bless!
-Lauren
I go to church with the Leaf family, and when they began to pray for BJ, everyone did. I think we all felt as if we knew him because we read his xanga and looked for updates at this site. For our small group Bible study, the seniors read the last entry in BJ's xanga and discussed it. It is so profound and mature, I can't believe it! It really challenged me in my own faith. BJ has helped me to grow in Christ, and I thank God for him and your family. I truly wish that I could attend the service, but I live in Kansas City and have school. God bless you all, and I will be praying for you.
Love in Him,
Erin Marrs
i have been praying for you all night. i am sure it was an exhausting, yet healing evening for you all with lots of hugs, tears and smiles. i pray that you are hanging in there and that god will sustain you throughout this weekend. i regret that i cannot be there as bj has impacted my life more than many people that i see every day. please know that your son continues to make a difference. i am especially praying for bj's beloved sisters. that they may also know god's calling for their life and know his peace. it must be great for them to see how special their brother was, but i pray that they each know that they are special and talented as well. it would be great if you could post a family picture for us to pray over. you are all still in our prayers.
Brent, Deanna, Lauren, and Whitney,
I have been lifting you all up in prayer all day, anticipating what you would have facing you this afternoon and evening. I hope you somehow found comfort and peace through the presence of the Lord, as you so graciously greeted all those people who came to pay their respects to BJ and to you all. It was a wonderful sight to see. We will be there tomorrow too to celebrate BJ. We are more and more convinced he was truly a "chosen one" by God. I pray for your rest and sleep tonight and strength for tomorrow -
We are all,
Under His Wing, Jerry & DeAnn
Dear Higgins Family,
Our prayers are with you & have been with BJ since we found out about his illness this summer at lakes...we are heartbroken for your family. May God hold you in His loving arms and comfort you with the knowledge that BJ is rejoicing, praising God along-side our good friend Dirk.
The Chalfant Family,
Doug, Diane, Christopher & Joel
life song sing to you
his heart is true
I give my life
to reach a world in need
He giveth power to the faint
And to those who have no might he giveth strength.
Even the youth shall faint and be weary
And the young men shall utterly fall.
But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.
They shall mount up with wings like eagles.
They shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
Mrs. Higgins from your many loving Eagle students in Zionsville Pleasant View Elementary, past and present, you especially are in our hearts and prayers.
Higgens Family:
I've never met BJ, but I learned about him through Logan, who played Jesus in Peru 2005. I want you to know I am praying for your family. I got a "Pray For BJ" t-shirt, and I was planning on wearing it tomorrow...but I figured Logan should wear it in BJ's memory instead. (Good thing I got a larger size) So, I will be wearing pink...God Bless you all throught this time.
In Him,
Jessica Schreifels
jessica1@utbiz.com
Hey guys--since I am in P-cola I cant attend the service, but I am praying for yall--I am going to try and catch the one on this website though! I love and miss yall, and think of yall constantly! Love Always --n-- CHRIST Karen aka KareBear
Just wanted you guys to know that I'm still praying for you tonight as I head to sleep. I pray that the memorial calling today was a time of healing and sweet remembrance. I will continue to pray for your strength, endurance and peace tomorrow. I will be listening online and praying you through it with many others. God bless you. Thank you so much for continuing to update this site. It is great to know how to better pray for you each day and I think in a way it helps the healing for the community of believers who are praying on your behalf to return to this place where the Holy Spirit continues to move. We know that you did not and do not have to continue to share these most honest details of your lives and journey, please know that we are so grateful for your selflessness and willingness to allow God to work through your family during your time of need. Love and peace in Christ to you.
I wanted to let you know it is 11:31 pm my time and I'm thinking of your family right now. I prayed for peace and comfort today. I know today was hard and it will forever be, but ya'll have so many people who love u guys. I truely am sorry for your loss. I just pray that u will always keep your faith. Goodnight.... Laura
"See all around, now the nations
bow down to sing. The only
sound is the praises to Christ,
our King. Slowly the names from
the book are read. I know the
King, so there’s no need to dread.
No more night. No more pain.
No more tears. Never crying
again. And praises to the great "I
AM." We will live in the light of
the risen Lamb.
See over there, there’s a mansion,
oh that’s prepared just for me,
where I will live with my savior
eternally."
"No more night" by David Phelps
Though I can't be at BJs party as much as I would like, we will be celebrating BJs life here in Mobile. I wish i had the opportunity to meet this amazing young man, but i know he is touching lives even still! Our youth minister has been using BJ and his fight as an example to our youth, giving updates every time they meet. He has been an inspiration to us all! I love that kid and I know we all do :)
Be Blessed and Stay Weak under the power of Christ
Stacey Thomas
Mobile, AL
I just wanted to thank you as a family for your part of this ministry-- God has used you as a vessel to show unsuspecting selfinvolved people like me what it means to truly have faith and glorify His name, His will, and His love. Thank you so much. You have been, and remain, in my prayers.
-Jessi. HLG.
Thank you for the beautiful display of photograghs which allowed us to journey through BJ's incredible life. You have been so very gracious to allow each of us to feel such a personal connection to your precious BJ. May God be glorified, and may you all find rest tonight. May the Holy Spirit have His way in BJ's service and celebration.
In His Love,
Lori Burkert
www.prayforbj.com
Dear Brent, Deanna, Lauren and Whitney,
My name is Tanya Markova. I live in the city of Vladimir, Russia. I know Becky Higgins and that is why I know what has happened to B.J.. My condolence to you all. At the time when B.J. got sick and was taken to hospital, my mom was already in hospital with bad stroke. I prayed for both of them asking God for their healing. It was God’s will to take B.J. to Himself and I know that His will is always perfect. Though sometimes it is very hard to accept. I pray for you right now and ask God to strengthen you and to wrap you in His arms of love. May His presence be with you and may you always rely upon Him. B.J. is with Jesus now. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Rev. 21:3-4
I wish I could be there today to meet a family I have come to so much admire! I will be with you in my thoughts and prayers today that God gives you much comfort and happiness as you remember the 15 years you had with such and incredible kid!!! May you feel this (HUG) I send your way!
Your sister in Christ,
Debbie Schmidt
Florence, KY
Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place
Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place
I can feel His mighty power and his grace
I can hear the brush of angels’ wings
I can see glory on His face
Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place
In the midst of His children the Lord said He would be
It doesn’t take very many, it can be just two or three
And I feel that same sweet spirit that I felt both times before
Surely I can say I’ve been with the Lord
Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place
I can feel His mighty power and his grace
I can hear the brush of angels’ wings
I can see glory on His face
Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place
There’s a Holy hush around us, as God slowly fills His grace
I’ve touched the hem of his garment, I can almost see His face
And my heart is overflowing with the fullness of His love
I know without a doubt that I’ve been with the Lord
Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place
I can feel His mighty power and his grace
I can hear the brush of angels’ wings
I can see glory on His face
Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place
We wish we could be there with you as you say goodbye to BJ and was you celebrate his life. He truly lived life to the fullest and touched so many along the way. And I'm sure God will continue to use his story as He uses yours as well. May you feel His presence as He goes with you throughout this day.
Tonna M
Utah
Praying for strength for the day!
Indianapolis
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050930/NEWS01/509300502/1006/NEWS01
the above address should take you to a story that appeared in today's Indianapolis Star about BJ...his word spreads :)
Greenfield, Indiana
Thank you for all that your allowing us to share with you. Even though we have not met, I feel we know one another.I am away on a Women's retreat in N.C. right now and have been sharing BJ and your family with my family. Just in telling them about BJ and the little that I know of him they have been inspired, and come to tears that he is gone. We are continuing to pray for you. I am so looking forward to the Worship Celebration to celebrate BJ and to worship our Lord. After the retreat, my sisters, niece, mom and Btr-in-law are hoping to worship with you. May God continue to keep you and bless you.
Loretta Baudile
Youngstown, OH
Brent, Deanna,
I would like to take a moment to thank you for last evening. I wish we could have fellowshiped longer, but as there were many people there that felt the same, we will soon fellowship again.
My family continues to lift your family up to the Lord for continued blessings.
As I grow older and continue to walk with Christ, I realize that in my Journey, I reach new plateau's, I have reached a new Plateau just through knowing you and your family. You have helped me (without knowing it) reach a new level. I am forever grateful. God continues to speak to each of us every day, yet, for whatever reason we don't take the time to listen. I proudly wear my Pink Shirt (did I say that?) YES I DID! I was able to share last evening at dinner with three waitress'. It was exciting. My girls have seen what it means to be not just a believer, or a follower, but a messenger of Christ's word. I pray for them daily, that they will Lead, and share the message. The Higgins Family is an incredible family, that if for only a moment a person can get to know, will truely be blessed. I am proud, and blessed to have known you and thank you! I am forever grateful to be able to call you "FRIEND"!
Forgive me if I seem to run on, but I am not a good communicator.
I am glad we all got to hug last night, and I look forward to the hugs again tonight. I will continue to pray for you through this difficult day. My family will be there to celebrate with your family this evenging.
May God Bless you with more apples than you can count.
Love, YOUR FRIEND!
Matt Littell
For the last month I have read BJ's webpage and prayed for all of you. It is obvious that each of you love the Lord and know of his faithfulness, just as BJ displayed in his jounral entries that you have graciously shared. Though I do not know you but through a professor of mine, I know that we are brothers and sisters and I pray for you.
Fort Worth, Texas
Hello! I am a employee at St. Vincent Health, I walked passed your son's room on numerous of times and I could feel the love that you all had for one another. My sympathy and prayers go out to you and your family because I have been in you shoes before having lost someone that was dear to me, just keep your head up high and remember that God doesn't give us more than we can bear.
Dear Higgins family-
Today, at Parkview Baptist Church in Tulsa, Ok, I was given the wondrous opportunity to hear the testimony of your son's anointing and outreach to so many. The account of your son's life was awe-inspiring and moving....I can only pray that my small son will one day come to know salvation through Jesus Christ; the intensity of BJ's service and passion for God's kingdom shines as a beacon for believers and nonbelievers everywhere. God bless you. You are in our prayers.
Post a Comment
<< Home