As most of you would already have heard about the sad passing of Andrew Johnston (AJ) last Thursday night during a soccer match. It is a tragic event that is very hard to process and accept due to the unexpected nature and suddenness of the moment. Our minds have trouble processing the situation because it defies logic that someone fit and in a good place spiritually and personally, with a loving family and friends and so much more to give and be a blessing to so many that God should call him home.

Like many of you, I have no words or reason of why this has happened. God in his perfect will and planning has called Andrew home. In our minds and thoughts we can think that God has made an error, has called the wrong person, surely there is no logical reason for God to do what he has done.

Gods will and purposes are perfect and his planning is much greater than our finite understanding. God understands our loss and our hurts and knows the pain this event has caused to Andrew’s family and friends. I know that hurt and pain because my dad passed away as unexpectedly at a similar age. I was angry at God for some time for doing that to me and I told him so. God was patient with me and comforted me with his Holy Spirit. I learnt through this loss that God does not do thing to us, but for us. It is a hard experience and I still carry the ache and loss in my heart 50+yrs on.

God loves us immeasurably and perfectly and has a life plan for each of us. In faith we must hold onto the comfort and knowledge that nothing happens without the will of God directing and watching over us, and He only desires the best for us.

To the Johnston family I offer my sincerest condolences and share with you the understanding of your loss and grief. God’s blessing on you and the comfort of the Holy Spirit be upon you all.

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." — Isaiah 41:10

You are never alone in your grief.

“Therefore you too have grief now; but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you." — John 16:22

The loss is painful, but you will get through it.