Family, today we picked up Beej's remains. It has certainly helped remind us that he is no longer in his body, but in heaven with Christ Jesus! We are so very thankful for that. There are times we miss him so much that the hurt makes us sick at our stomachs. But our gentle Savior reminds us frequently that there is no suffering for him, and that ours is temporary...Praise Jesus!

Reading his journal entries continues to take precedence over most other reading. I can hear his voice when I read his words. I hope that never changes. I am continuing to learn things about my son as well. I did not know that he felt called to martyrdom. My new "daughter" Barbara Ann reflected on that in the KFOR interview in Ok City. [By the way, super job Brooke, Barbara Ann, Tara, and Ashley (Ashley's face and interview did not make the final story)]. I knew he was very moved by stories of martyrs, but that was it. Certainly reading his words have given clues as well. This journal entry reflects on Psalm 119:1-8, and Phil 1:20-2:11.

"We should always keep a record of God's faithfulness so that we don't forget even the little things He does for us. God is faithful and always provides and will never leave or forsake us. Vv. 1-8 emphasize integrity, and can be summed up in v.1 and v.8. In v.1, it talks of how those who follow God's Word are blessed. V.8 talks of how "I will obey Your principles," which sums up much of the rest of the passage.

Philippians- living is all for Christ and entails many trials and persecutions, and is better for those around you, but dying and going to be with the Lord is better for yourself. We need to live with courage and character worthy of citizens of heaven and fight boldly in this spiritual war we are immersed in, and take our suffering boldly, for it is a pleasure to suffer for Christ. We need to live humble lives, considering others as better than ourselves, for even Christ, who is God, humbled Himself."

I can tell you that as a father, when I went on my first overseas mission trip, I wept at the airport prior to leaving, as I knew that I was willing to lay my life down for Christ, but ached at the thought of not seeing my family again. BJ loves the Savior so much that he did lay his life down for Him. I miss Beej, but am proud of his willingness to make this sacrifice.

To the 97 who walked the aisle (Friday night) to declare their willingness to serve Jesus on the mission field: I am as proud of each of you for the boldness of your commitment as I am my son. I pray that each of your parents stand behind your willingness to serve, wherever the Lord leads you!!! Know that Deanna and I stand behind you, and will be praying for each of you as you focus on Christ.

To the 8 who turned their lives over to Christ: Praise the Lord for your boldness and willingness to lay down your rights to yourself to serve the King of Kings. Begin reading the book of John in the New Testament. This is a picture of Christs life through the ministry years, and as we are called to follow Him, this shows us the example we are to follow. Also, get hooked up in a Bible teaching church! You need to be discipled and to grow! We have been made aware of who 2 of you are, but would love to hear from each of you, either through this blog sight or e-mail. It's been posted once, but you can reach us at bahiggins1259@msn.com

Serving the King beside you,

dad

(for those who are searching for ways to access the different media interviews, or the webcast of Beej's Celebration, please read through the blogs posted, as instructions have been offered up by fellow bloggers.)