Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us . . . Hebrews 12:1

"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us . . . " Hebrews 12:1



Almost 18 years ago, life changed in an instant when Steven Sauder sustained a head injury after a car collision. Although there have been many difficulties, God's grace has been clearly evident. The past few years, Steven continued to decline, yet God gave him the strength to "never give up". On May 9, 2011, he reached the end of his journey.



Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Celebration Services

We have decided to set the date of celebration service for Steven for Saturday, May 21 at 2:00pm. (Waiting a week and a half will make it easier for our daughter and granddaughter currently in LA at the science competition.) Since our church, Grace Covenant, rents a facility that will be in use on Saturdays, Bethel Mennonite Church has graciously consented to allowing us to use their facilities off of Fruitville Rd. east of the interstate at 2985 Bethel Lane, Sarasota, FL. (I will give more specific directions later.) If you are able, please come! Dress is anything from very casual (jeans) to very dressy (suit and tie), so come however you feel comfortable. Bright clothes or black. Your presence is what matters.

We are also going to have an additional service in Illinois in July, since we have so many precious friends, relatives, former staff and patients, and business associates there. The IL service will be at our former church, Eureka Bible, in Eureka, IL. We should have that date finalized by tomorrow, and I will post that info online.

I have moments, naturally, of missing Steven terribly, but generally I am so very, very thankful that God has taken him home. This is what he has longed for and looked forward to for so many years. Heaven was very real to him while he was here, and now it IS absolute reality for him. HE IS SEEING GOD FACE TO FACE! Isn't that just totally awesome??
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4 comments:

  1. MarciaMay 10, 2011 at 11:10 PM

    Vicki, That is totally awesome. I just cannot imagine what he is seeing. He ran the race and fought the fight and now is reaping the reward....Heaven!! I am so looking forward to going there for sure!! I am so glad you are doing so well. We are praying daily for you.
    Love you! Marcia

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  2. GennyMay 11, 2011 at 7:34 AM

    Thanks for the update, Vicki. Laura Boyd and I were talking last night, wondering what Steve was seeing. Laura is wondering what Jesus really looks like ! I don't know what he physically looks like, but I know he was smiling when Steve got home !

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  3. AnonymousMay 11, 2011 at 11:57 AM

    Vicki--How bittersweet this time if for you. How wonderful for Steve, but how hard for loved ones to be separated from him even though you celebrate his seeing Jesus face to face. We are praying for you and your family.
    Love you!
    Tim & Susan

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  4. AnonymousMay 14, 2011 at 12:12 AM

    Vicki, Wish both Randy and I could come, but my mom is in the hospital. Ryan really wants to come, so I believe they have looked at some flights. Steve, you, and of course John were a huge part of Ryan's growing up years. We were so thankful to have such Godly people in Ryan's life. We love you guys and will be with you in Spirit. Love and hugs, Randy and Deb

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