THE TESTIMONY OF JESSE ARMSTRONG

Proverbs 16:9 says, “The mind of a man plans his way but the Lord directs his steps.”

Jesse Armstrong planned to be a career missionary to Russia but at 38 he and his family are now back in the states because he has ALS. Lou Gehrig’s Disease has ravaged his body now to the point that he can no longer walk or talk or even write. He is a prisoner in his own body. Our pastor asked him to give his testimony. Using a computer with an electronic device attached to his forehead, he was able to type these words which our pastor read to us in the service the Sunday before Thanksgiving. May it encourage you to live for Him today but with the mindset that you could meet Him tomorrow.

"In the book of James we are reminded that our life on this earth is nothing more than a vapor or whiff of lingering smoke from an already extinguished fire. Many of us are familiar with this nugget of Truth. But in comparison, very few have grasped its meaning to the point that it has become motivation to live today with the conviction that tonight they might meet their Creator. Barring the rapture of the Church each of us will face death. Some will face death by accident, others by surprise, others on purpose. Based upon my observation of how the world is making decisions today, I would have to say that most people (Christians included) do not lead their life with the realization that eternity is just around the corner. There are a few, however, that have been chosen by the Lord to carry about in their bodies a constant reminder of the difference between the temporal and the eternal. I am among these chosen few. There is no earthly joy or pleasure in the difficulties surrounding ALS or any disease or ailment for that matter. The only real joy or comfort we, the chosen few that are Christians, have is:

From within--the peace that passes all our understanding.
From without--the acts of love that others show to us as individuals and to our families.

As you have blessed us in so many ways by showing us your love in tangible ways, please allow us to be a blessing to you by serving as a living reminder that this life is, oh, so temporary.

Live for Him today, expecting to meet Him tomorrow."