John Cook 1934-2007

My Step Dad, John Cook passed into glory this past Saturday evening, May 26th 2007. The Father called his name and took him home while he was asleep in his own bed. He had suffered so much over the past 10 months with cancer and other illnesses and yet through it all his faith in God did not waver. It increased. He was an inspiration not only to his wife, his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and step children and their children, but to all he came into contact with as well. Our church drew quite a bit of strength in seeing his faith as well.

Whenever there was help that was needed, John was there to give a willing hand. Weather it was helping people to move or helping with a building project, John was there. He was a gentle giant. He would seem gruff and cranky at times, but truth was, it was just a put on as he had heart of gold and a heart to help those in need.

My mom was married to him for 24 years and I can truly say she was never happier. He would go out his way to do things for her. I thank God for bringing John into her life after all she had endured with my dad.

Psalm 112 is a Psalm that perfectly describes John. He loved the Lord. He wasn’t perfect by any means. None of us are. But he knew who his redeemer was. Jesus!

1 Praise the LORD!
         Blessed is the man who fears the LORD,
Who delights greatly in His commandments.
2 His descendants will be mighty on earth;
         The generation of the upright will be blessed.
3 Wealth and riches will be in his house,
         And his righteousness endures forever.
4 Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness;
He is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.
5 A good man deals graciously and lends;
         He will guide his affairs with discretion.
6 Surely he will never be shaken;
         The righteous will be in everlasting remembrance.
7 He will not be afraid of evil tidings;
         His heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
8 His heart is established;
         He will not be afraid,
         Until he sees his desire upon his enemies.
9 He has dispersed abroad,
         He has given to the poor;
         His righteousness endures forever;
         His horn will be exalted with honor.
10 The wicked will see it and be grieved;
         He will gnash his teeth and melt away;
         The desire of the wicked shall perish. (NKJV)

We will see John again one day. This is not an end, but a beginning.