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.



Monday, May 9, 2011

This morning around 1:45a.m., God called Steven Home.

Yesterday morning, when he was a somewhat responsive to me, I read him several Psalms, and then Isaiah 35 fell open. I cried all the while we read it together. Portions follow:

"...strengthen the feeble hands,
steady the knees that give way;
say to those with fearful hearts,
Be strong, do not fear, your God will come...
Then will the eyes of the blind be opened
and the ears of the deaf unstopped.
Then will the lame leap like a deer,
and the mute tongue shout for joy...
And a highway will be there;
it will be called the Way of Holiness.
But only the redeemed will walk there,
and the ransomed of the Lord will return.
They will enter Zion with singing,
everlasting joy will crown their heads.
Gladness and joy will overtake them,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away."

I will post again when we have arrangements made. Thank you so very much for your love and prayers through this journey. God is good.
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10 comments:

  1. John and Janel BreitensteinMay 9, 2011 at 10:28 AM

    Celebrating your husband and dad's coronation with you, while grieving the loss of a great man, a man of God. Praying for your peace and comfort...and just crying with you right now.

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  2. John and Janel BreitensteinMay 9, 2011 at 10:53 AM

    Romans 12:15 sums it up pretty well--rejoicing with those who rejoice and weeping with those who weep. We are doing both of those things with you right now. Rejoicing over a life well lived despite tremendous adversity. Rejoicing over his wholeness and the warm welcome he received when he arrived in heaven. Rejoicing over a man who was a godly example to us all. And weeping over a man who was incredibly loved and will be dearly missed here on earth. We're praying for you. --from Gary and Cindy

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  3. AnonymousMay 9, 2011 at 12:55 PM

    Praying for the peace of our God through His Son Jesus that transcends ALL understanding for you and your family. In His Love, Susie McIntosh

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  4. AnonymousMay 9, 2011 at 1:52 PM

    Vicki

    We are thankful that Steven's earthly journey is over and he is in the presence of our Lord. We are praying for you and your family to have His perfect peace at this time.

    Love Jim and Sharon Greiner

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  5. AnonymousMay 9, 2011 at 7:29 PM

    May God richly comfort you all as you miss your loving husband and father yet rejoice in him seeing Jesus face to face. Able to see Him fully, able to walk and talk with our Lord. Love, hugs, memories, and many thoughts and prayers.
    The Finleys

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  6. MarciaMay 9, 2011 at 9:51 PM

    Vicki, I am so thankful that you were able to have that time in the Word with Steven. We know that was such a comfort for him. What an incredible faith he had. What a glad reunion he is having right now with those that went before him. We rejoice for Steven but are praying for you and your family. It has been a long journey for all of you. My love to you. Marcia

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  7. Truman and BevMay 9, 2011 at 10:47 PM

    Vicki, As we pray for you and your family, and we think about Steven's journey and his walking through heaven's door, we are reminded of Job 23:10. "For the Lord knows the way that I go, and when he has tried me, I shall come forth as gold". Steven was truly an example of a redeemed life well lived. We continue to pray for you and your family. Truman and Bev,

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  8. GennyMay 9, 2011 at 11:28 PM

    What wonderful, comforting words for both of you. You know we are praying for you and yours. I know it's tough. It wouldn't be if you didn't love him. Separation is so hard. It's not forever, but oh how it hurts right now. You are still loved by a faithful God who knows what separation from someone you love is like, because He was separated from His son on the cross.

    Love, Genny

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  9. AnonymousMay 10, 2011 at 8:46 AM

    Isn't God so gracious to give you just the right scripture at just the right moment. So grateful for His Spirit within us.

    Steve has left such a godly legacy. Your family reunion around the throne one day will be glorious.

    Our love and prayers,
    The Kempfs

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  10. the Engels familyMay 10, 2011 at 10:13 PM

    Vicki and Family,

    Diane was so thoughtful and sent me the blog address just a few days ago. I read all that was written and saw all the pics. The last time I saw Steve (and your very young family then)was in 1975. Such a long time ago. I have to say this...what an awesome testimony and loving tribute to such a Godly man, woman and family. The amount of strength and faithful endurance you've all shown is nothing short of astounding. You're all shining examples of how to triumph in the face of over-whelming adversities. I've been so touched and yet so sad all at once.

    Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you all right now.

    Love,
    Crystal & family

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