Memorial to a Dear Friend

On Dec. 22, 2008 a good friend of mine, Randy Shafer went home to be with Jesus. He is now no longer in pain, suffering from the threat of melanoma cancer, and death has lost its sting. Thank God for His glorious gospel. Randy discipled me shortly after I became a believer. Randy did not just disciple me he taught me how to disciple. He taught me that discipleship is not a formula but is relationally alive.

As I was growing in my faith and my understanding of the word of God, I could call Randy up any time of the day and share with him whatever was on my heart. I remember one particular instance when I participated in my first singles bible study and I can recall a guy teaching on salvation. He had the view that one could lose their salvation. You can imagine as a new believer how I became greatly concerned. As soon as I arrived home, I immediately called Randy up and shared with him my concern about what I heard. He answered me in this most gentle way, (by the way it was 10pm on a weekday) and did not launch into what he believed but quickly took me to the scriptures, showing me passages concerning the grace of God. I would like to say I remember the passages but I don't but my hunch is they were some key texts like Eph. 2:8-9, and John 10: 28.

When I met my beloved wife, Kendra, I told her that I wanted Randy to marry us. He almost didn't make it to the wedding. On the day before our wedding a snow storm hit Dallas, TX of all places (they say it happens once every 2-4 years). We had sent someone to the airport to pick him up but because of the weather his plane was delayed and so he missed his ride. He ended up getting a taxi and by God's grace he made it to the church the night of our rehearsal.

Randy, like I said taught me how to disciple, to unveil my heart and be honest with the Lord in everything, and as a result the Lord through the Holy Spirit has truly transformed my life. Randy recognized in me the gifts of shepherding and my love for the Gospel. I believe that if I would never have met Randy, I probably would not be a pastor today.

His children, Jennifer, Ian, and Emma are rich in the Gospel because of Randy's love and grace that he bestowed upon them. And his wife, Beth, could not have been a more blessed wife to have him as her husband.

He will be missed, I know I miss him already. I will see you again one day in our Father's glorious presence.